Henri de Navarre’s unexpected ascension to the throne of France after Henri III’s assassination was generally unacceptable in France because he was not Catholic. A period of war and turmoil began, lasting four years. During this time Henri met Gabrielle d’Estrées, a beautiful 17 year old who became his mistress and fully expected to become Queen.
Henri IV finally decided to settle the matter by converting to Catholicism. He is often quoted as saying:
“Paris is well worth a mass”.
Gabrielle gave birth to three children. Henri recognised all of them and gave them titles. His eldest son, César de Vendôme would later become a major player during the reigns of Louis XIII and Louis XIV.
Henri started negotiations with the Pope to have his marriage to Marguerite annulled so he could finally marry Gabrielle. As the discussions were taking place, Gabrielle died giving premature birth to a stillborn fourth child.
The following year Henri married Marie de Medici (for her money) and took up with a new mistress, Henriette. The queen Marie de Medici and Henri IV had six children. Henri insisted that all his children, including Gabrielle’s three and Henriette’s two were brought up together with the Queen’s six children in the royal chateau.
