[citation needed] The history of Fresnay-sur-Sarthe begins with the building of the castle in around the 9th or 10 century, under the reign of Charles the Bald.

Express mention can be found on an official document dated October 12, 997, in the first year of the reign of Robert the Pious.

Young Robert of Bellême, who played an important role during the siege, was knighted by William the Conqueror.

The castle was successively occupied by the adventurers of Philippe de la Chèze in 1356, and then captured by the English troops of King Henry V in 1417.

It returned to French rule due to Ambroise de Loré (future companion of Joan of Arc).