Wife of Henry, Duke of Orleans

I was born to the great and powerful Medici family and when I was born, both my mother and father died before I can even have any memories with them. Oh how I wish I could have met them. As an infant, I was being taken care of by my father’s relatives, Popes Leo X and Clement VII. In 1533, Pope Clement arranged a marriage between Henry, the duke of Orleans, and I. The wedding between us was very glamorous and there were a lot of fun things to do. Our wedding was held at Marseille on October 28, 1533. I still remember the night when he jousted and danced for me and I also remember that we left the wedding at midnight. As his wife, I kind of already knew he had little interest for me but either way I still loved him as a husband. He would often have different ladies with him but I have no idea why I accepted that. One in particular named Diane de Poitiers was someone he loved very much.

Since I could not have any children, divorce between us was being brought up because they needed a male heir to the throne. With the help of Jean Fernel, I was now able to produce children. I am really thankful to him for allowing me to now have 7 wonderful children. Even though I gave birth to many kids, Henry still liked Diane de Poitiers and will for the rest of his life. 

Henry, my husband