Elisabetta de' Medici was born in 1542 in Florence, Italy, as a member of the prominent Medici family. She was the daughter of Cosimo I de' Medici, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, and Eleonora di Toledo. Elisabetta was known for her intelligence and beauty, and she played a significant role in the political landscape of her time. In 1560, she married Francesco I de' Medici, who later became Grand Duke of Tuscany. Their marriage was politically motivated, strengthening the Medici family's influence. Elisabetta had several children and was involved in various cultural and artistic endeavors, contributing to the rich heritage of the Renaissance.