Catherine, Princess of Wales, will travel to Reggio Emilia in northern Italy on May 13 and 14 for a visit focused on early childhood education, Kensington Palace has officially announced.
British media have described the trip as a major step in Kate’s gradual return to royal duties following the cancer diagnosis she revealed in March 2024. It will be her first official overseas engagement since then and carries strong symbolic significance.
The visit is closely linked to the work of the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, launched by the princess in 2021 to promote the importance of children’s early development.
Kate is said to have a particular interest in the internationally respected “Reggio Emilia Approach,” an educational philosophy centered on creativity, interaction and children’s self-expression. During the trip, she will visit key institutions connected to the method, including the Loris Malaguzzi International Centre, the Remida creative recycling center and several preschools.
The princess will also make a private visit to Reggio Emilia’s historic Sala del Tricolore, where she is expected to meet local authorities.
Italy holds a personal significance for Kate. Before joining the British royal family, she spent time studying in Florence, where she developed a strong connection to Italian culture, language and art - a bond now renewed through her commitment to children’s education.