Kate began a 2-day visit to Italy on Wednesday, with the trip focused on early childhood development and early years education, according to Kensington Palace and published reports. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
The Princess of Wales travelled first to Reggio Emilia in northern Italy, a city known for early childhood education and the Reggio Emilia approach. Palace sources said the programme is a high-level working visit to explore leading international examples of support for young children and their carers. [1, 3, 4, 5]
The trip is Kate's first formal overseas engagement since she was diagnosed with cancer in 2024 and later announced remission in January 2025, reports said. She had gradually returned to royal duties after treatment. [1, 3, 4, 5]
An aide described the visit as “a huge moment for the princess,” adding that it is her first official international trip after recovery and “a really significant moment for her.” Palace sources also said they wanted first-hand observation of how the Reggio Emilia approach creates environments that blend nature with caring relationships. [2, 3]
Kate's previous official trip abroad was in December 2022, when she and Prince William travelled to Boston for the Earthshot Prize ceremony. The couple have three children. [1, 3, 4, 5]
The visit continues in Italy on Thursday, with further engagements linked to early years education and child care. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
