CATHERINE DE’ MEDICI, A SCHEMER IN THE LOIRE VALLEY CASTLES

Exceptional destinies

An episode from the series SECRETS OF HISTORY - PORTRAITS

Synopsis

Catherine de' Medici was an Italian noblewoman who was Queen of France from 1547 until 1559, as the wife of King Henry II. His death thrust her into the political arena as Queen Mother and Regent from 1560 to 1564.

A legend dating back to the religious wars has followed her for centuries. The murky role she played in the St. Bartholomew's Day massacre continues to divide scholars.

In the Loire Valley, the castles she lived in reveal their secrets.