The Princess of Wales is set to embark on her first major overseas royal visit since undergoing cancer treatment, beginning her trip to Italy by receiving the city of Reggio Emilia’s highest honour for her dedicated work in promoting early years development.
Kate will be presented with the Primo Tricolore at the city’s town hall, marking what an aide described as a "really significant moment" after her recovery. The two-day visit to Reggio Emilia, near Bologna, signifies the Princess "taking it up a gear" in her "global mission" to champion early childhood initiatives worldwide.
For over a decade, early years development has been central to the future Queen’s public work. This visit follows the recent launch of a new resource for professionals working with young children and their families, developed by her Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood.
Christian Guy, executive director of the foundation, who is accompanying the Princess, underscored the urgency of early years, equating its importance to global issues such as climate change.
During her time in Italy, the Princess will delve into the Reggio Emilia Approach, a globally recognised teaching method pioneered in the city. This philosophy emphasises the crucial roles of parents, educators, and the environment – often referred to as "the third teacher" – in a child's development.
The Princess of Wales revealed at the start of last year that she was in remission following chemotherapy for an undisclosed form of cancer.
Her last major international engagement was in December 2022, when she travelled to Boston with the Prince of Wales for the Earthshot Prize award ceremony.
An aide reiterated the importance of this trip, stating: "Undoubtedly, this is a huge moment for the princess. Although there will be many highlights of 2026, I think this being her first official international visit, post her recovery, I think this is a really significant moment for her."
At a reception in Reggio Emilia’s town hall, Kate will meet civic leaders and key figures who shaped the Reggio Emilia education philosophy. Before departing, she is also expected to greet members of the public in the square outside the civic building.
