- Mar 21 Hermann Finck, German composer, born in Pirna (d. 1558)
- Apr 14 Abraham Ortelius, Flemish cartographer and dealer in maps, books, and antiquities (Theatrum orbis terrarum), born in Antwerp, Belgium (d. 1598)
- May 8 Johann Walter, German composer, born in Kahla (d. 1570)
- May 21 Philip II, King of Spain (1556-98) and Portugal (1580-98), born in Valladolid, Spain (d. 1598)
- Jul 13 John Dee, English alchemist, astrologer and mathematician, born in London, England (d. 1609)
- Jul 31 Maximilian II, German King/Emperor (1564-76)
- Sep 21 Matthäus Ludecus, German composer, born in Wilsnach, Prignitz (d. 1606)
- Oct 21 Louis I, Cardinal of Guise, French cardinal (d. 1578)
- Nov 18 Luca Cambiaso, Italian painter and sculptor, born in Moneglia, Republic of Genoa (d. 1585)