The evolution of French food over time has been greatly informed by both history and geography. In certain parts of France, nearby neighbors such as Italy and Germany have influenced the foods of those regions. In particular, many sources cite the marriage of Catherine de Medici of Italy to King Henry II of France in 1533 as an important event that changed French food. – When Catherine de Medici came to France, she brought with her many of her cooks and her culinary practices, which came to be incorporated into French cooking and French life!