Diane de Poitiers was one of the most influential and notorious women in 16th-century France. She was the royal mistress and adviser of King Henry II, who was 20 years younger than her. She wielded much power and influence at the court, while the real queen, Catherine de Medici, was relegated to the background. Diane was also a patron of French Renaissance architecture and a keen athlete who maintained a fit and youthful appearance. But how did she die, and what was the secret behind her beauty regimen?
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The Mystery of Diane’s Death
Diane de Poitiers died on April 25, 1566, at the age of 66, at her chateau in Anet, Normandy. The cause of her death was not recorded by history, and remained a mystery for centuries. Some speculated that she died of natural causes, while others suggested that she was poisoned by her enemies or by Catherine de Medici, who finally got rid of her rival after Henry’s death in 1559.
However, in 2009, a team of scientists exhumed Diane’s remains and conducted a series of tests to determine the cause of her death. What they discovered was shocking and unexpected.
The Poison That Kept Her Young
The scientists found that Diane had been slowly poisoned by gold, which had accumulated in her bones and hair. They also found traces of mercury and lead in her body. How did these metals get into her system? The answer lies in Diane’s beauty routine.
According to Wikipedia, Diane drank liquid gold regularly to preserve her skin and keep it looking young. She also used cosmetics that contained mercury and lead, which were common ingredients in the 16th century. These metals had toxic effects on her health, and eventually killed her.
The scientists concluded that Diane died of metal poisoning, which caused damage to her organs and nervous system. They also noted that she suffered from osteoporosis, arthritis, and tooth decay.
The Legacy of Diane de Poitiers
Despite her tragic death, Diane de Poitiers left a lasting legacy in French history and culture. She was a remarkable woman who rose from being a noblewoman to being the most powerful woman in France. She was a loyal supporter of Henry II and helped him with political and military affairs. She was also a patron of arts and sciences, and commissioned many buildings and gardens that still exist today.
Diane de Poitiers was a woman ahead of her time, who defied the norms and expectations of her society. She was admired for her beauty, intelligence, and charisma, but also envied and hated by many. She was a victim of her own vanity, but also a symbol of strength and courage. She was a legend in her own right, and her story continues to fascinate and inspire people around the world.
