Renée of France

Renée of France, born on 25 October 1510, was a prominent figure in the aristocratic circles of Renaissance Europe. As the daughter of Louis XII of France and Anne of Brittany, she was steeped in royal lineage from an early age. Her marriage to Ercole II d'Este on 31 October 1534 marked the beginning of her role as Duchess of Ferrara, a title she held until 3 October 1559.

Throughout her life, Renée navigated the complexities of court politics and familial alliances, becoming a significant player in the cultural and religious shifts of her time. Her marriage connected her to the powerful d'Este family, descendants of Pope Alexander VI, further solidifying her influence in Italian nobility.

In her later years, Renée emerged as a staunch supporter of the Protestant Reformation, aligning herself with the teachings of John Calvin. This shift not only reflected her personal beliefs but also positioned her as a key figure in the religious transformations sweeping through Europe.