Peace of Cateau-Cambrésis
Le Cateau-Cambrésis, Nord, France
What happened
Envoys of King Henry II of France, King Philip II of Spain and Queen Elizabeth I of England agreed it, with Christina of Denmark presiding over the talks. Two treaties were agreed at Le Cateau on 2 and 3 April 1559. France gave up its claims to Italian lands ruled by Philip II, Savoy was given back to its duke, and Corsica went back to Genoa. France kept Calais and the Three Bishoprics, and Henry recognised Elizabeth as queen of England.
Why it matters
It ended the Italian Wars, which had lasted more than 60 years. England lost its last foothold on the Continent.
What came next
Henry II died on 10 July 1559 after an accident at a tournament held to celebrate the peace. The French Wars of Religion broke out in 1562.
Did you know?
The peace was sealed with royal marriages: Philip II married Elisabeth of Valois, and the Duke of Savoy married Margaret of France.
Timeline
- 1494The Italian Wars begin.
- 2 April 1559England–France treaty.
- 3 April 1559France–Spain treaty.
- 10 July 1559Henry II dies.
- 1562The French Wars of Religion break out.