The Princess of Wales showcased a rare linguistic talent today as she arrived in Reggio Emilia, Italy, for a whirlwind two-day tour focused on her early years advocacy. Greeted by thousands of enthusiastic royal fans, Princess Kate demonstrated her proficiency in Italian, charming locals and schoolchildren alike.
A Warm Welcome in Reggio Emilia
Dressed in a striking blue Edeline Lee trouser suit, Kate stepped off the plane to a hero's welcome. The city's main square was filled with Union flags, bouquets of flowers, and cheers of "bellissima" and "Kate!" as she mingled with the crowd, shaking hands and accepting gifts. This visit marks her first solo royal engagement in over three years and her first since her cancer diagnosis in 2024.
Speaking Italian with Schoolchildren
Kate, who spent her gap year in Italy, bent down to speak with a group of children aged three to five. In flawless Italian, she said, "I speak a bit of Italian. What is your name? I am Catarina." Five-year-old Alice later remarked, "She asked my name in Italian. She spoke Italian very well." Teacher Roberta Marzi added, "Her Italian was perfect and she spoke clearly."
Devoted Fans Travel Far
Among the crowd was Maria Angelo Redaelli, who woke at 3:15 am to drive 125 miles to see the princess. "I just love the Royal Family and I just had to be here," she said. "The princess said my hat was very glamorous and I gave her a rose. She is so beautiful." Social media buzzed with admiration, with one user writing, "Genuine, warm & loving Catherine, our Princess of Wales. She is so loved." Another commented, "Can’t believe the screams, it’s like she’s a pop star."
Promoting Early Years Education
Kate's visit aims to highlight the Reggio Emilia Approach, a world-renowned early years teaching method pioneered in the city. She will tour educational institutions and meet educators to learn about the approach, which emphasizes the role of parents, teachers, and the environment as "the third teacher." Kensington Palace stated that Kate feels "well and energised" for the trip, which heralds a new chapter in her advocacy. The future queen aspires to "lead the global conversation" on early childhood development, with plans for further international travel ahead.
