Henry II of France facts for kids

Henry II of France

Henry II of France (March 31, 1519 – July 10, 1559) was a King of France and a member of the house of Valois. Henry was crowned King in Rheims, France, on July 25, 1547.

Birth

Henry was born in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France, on March 31, 1519. His parents were Francis I of France and Claude of France.

Marriage

Henry was married to Catherine of Medici on October 28, 1533 when he was only 14 years old. Their children were:

• Francis II of France
• Elizabeth of Valois
• Charles IX of France
• Henry III of France
• Margaret of Valois

Henry did not love Catherine of Medici. He spent most of his time with his mistress, who was called Diane de Poitiers.

Death

Henry died on July 10, 1559 after a jousting accident. He is buried in the Saint Denis Basilica. The next King was Francis II of France.

Images for kids

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  Henry as a child

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  Entrance of Henri II in Metz in 1552, after the signature of the Treaty of Chambord

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  Engraving of Henry II

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  Henry II

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  The fatal tournament between Henry II and Montgomery (Lord of "Lorges")

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  Tombs of Henry II of France and his wife Catherine de' Medici in Basilica of St Denis, Paris

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  Detail from portrait plaque, enamel and gilding on copper

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  Henry II, here standing on an oriental carpet, continued the policy of Franco-Ottoman alliance of his father Francis I. Painting by François Clouet.

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  Coin of Henry II, 1547

• French bastard culverin 1548 with arms of Henri II and Catherine de Medicis and crescent of Diane 85mm 300cm 1076kg.jpg

  "Bastard culverin" of 1548, with arms of Henri II and Catherine de Medicis and crescent of Diane de Poitiers. Caliber: 85mm, length: 300 cm, weight: 1076 kg.

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  A cypher machine in the shape of a book, with arms of Henri II.

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  Monument to the Heart of Henry II, Louvre, Paris, sculpture of the Three Graces by Germain Pilon holding a replica of the urn that contained the king's heart