Étampes (Latin: Stampae) existed at the beginning of the 7th century and in the early Middle Ages belonged to the crown domain.

During the Middle Ages it was the scene of several councils, the most notable of which took place in 1130 and resulted in the recognition of Innocent II as the legitimate pope.

[3] Étampes lies on the river Chalouette, a tributary of the Juine, which borders the eastern outskirts of the serene town.

A fine view of Étampes is obtained from the Tour Guinette, a keep (now ruined) built by Louis VI in the 12th century on an eminence on the other side of the railway.

Notre-Dame du Fort, the chief church, dates from the 11th and 12th centuries; irregular in plan, it is remarkable for a fine Romanesque tower and spire, and for the crenellated wall which partly surrounds it.