Kate Middleton began a closely watched two-day visit to Italy on May 13, stepping out in Reggio Emilia for her first overseas work trip since her cancer diagnosis. The Princess of Wales was greeted by Mayor Marco Massari, local officials and large crowds gathered in the city square. According to People, the visit is centered on her long-running early childhood work and the expansion of that mission beyond the U.K. Her arrival carried both royal significance and a clear policy focus, with children and families at the center of the day’s schedule.
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Kate Middleton Greets Schoolchildren in Italian
One of the standout moments came when Kate crouched down to speak with schoolchildren waiting to meet her in the square. "I speak a bit of Italian. What is your name? I am Catarina," said Kate according to People Magazine. The princess used the Italian form of Catherine as she smiled and chatted with the children. She also waved to the crowd, posed for selfies and spent time greeting locals one by one. The exchange added a warm note to the opening of a visit built around connection with families and young children.
Reggio Emilia Visit Centers on Early Childhood Work
Inside City Hall, Kate was briefed on the history and educational thinking that made Reggio Emilia internationally respected for its approach to early childhood development. She met civic leaders as well as women who helped shape the local philosophy in the years around World War II. The princess also visited the Sala del Tricolore, the birthplace of the Italian flag. There, she received the Primo Tricolore, the city’s highest honor, in recognition of her work supporting children in their earliest years and the adults who care for them.
Crowds Welcome the Princess Across the City
The public response was strong from the moment she arrived. Thousands lined the square and surrounding streets, with some waiting for hours to catch a glimpse of the princess. Kate moved through the crowd shaking hands, stopping for photos and greeting a baby held near the barriers. "It's so nice to finally be here," Kate told a well-wisher. Handmade signs, cheers and chants of her name followed her outside City Hall. The reception underlined her popularity abroad as she resumed a major international engagement after a long health-related pause.
First Overseas Duty Since Cancer Diagnosis
The occasion carries extra weight because it is Kate’s first official trip abroad since 2024, when she disclosed her cancer diagnosis, and since announcing remission in January 2025. Her Italy schedule reflects a careful but confident return to international duties, tied to an issue she has backed for years. A royal aide said her focus has sharpened through recovery and that she is eager to see the Reggio Emilia model in action. That makes this visit more than a diplomatic appearance. It is also a statement about the work she wants to push forward next.
