Princess Catherine's Return to the International Stage
The Princess of Wales is set to make her return to the international arena on Wednesday with a visit to the Italian city of Reggio Emilia, marking a significant milestone in her recovery from cancer.
"Undoubtedly this is a huge moment for the princess. There will be many highlights of 2026, but this being her first official international visit post her recovery, this is a really significant moment for her," said an aide to the princess.
This will be Catherine's first official overseas visit in over three years, with the primary focus of the trip centered on her campaign for early years education.
She aims to elevate this cause to a "global mission," selecting Reggio Emilia due to its distinctive approach to early childhood learning.
The visit to this Italian city may be the first in a series of international trips to locations that have developed unique methods to support early childhood development.
"She wants to look at other models around the world and really create a global conversation," said the aide to the princess.
"It is only right that her first international trip since her illness is one that is focused on an issue that she is committed to championing for decades to come," they added.
Engagements in Reggio Emilia
During her time in Reggio Emilia, a city in northern Italy approximately 45 miles (72.5 km) west of Bologna, the princess will meet with educators, parents, and children involved in local schools and projects.
Catherine, who remains one of the most popular members of the Royal Family, is expected to attract public interest in this historic Italian city. The fascination with her has persisted, and she will once again appear before an international audience.
This will be the first time she encounters overseas crowds since her visit to Boston with her husband, Prince William, in December 2022.
Following that visit, she was diagnosed with cancer and has openly discussed the challenges of her treatment, revealing in January 2025 that she was in remission.
This trip represents a further step toward resuming full royal duties, described as "taking it up a gear."
"She's looking forward to being here, she's energised, she's enthused, she's excited to see Reggio Emilia in action and meet the people here too," said a royal aide.
Catherine is also reported to have fond memories of Italy, having spent part of a gap year in Florence after finishing school.
Focus on Early Childhood Education
In 2021, she launched the Centre for Early Childhood, which investigates how complex adult issues such as addiction and mental health problems can have origins in early childhood experiences.
During her two-day visit to Reggio Emilia, the princess will learn about the city's approach to child development, known as the Reggio Emilia approach, which emphasizes relationships and learning through play.
She will be accompanied by Christian Guy, executive director of the Centre for Early Childhood, who highlighted the broader importance of this visit.
"What matters most in that period is not just what children learn, but how they experience the people and the world around them," he said.
"This especially includes the quality of their relationships, the environments they grow up in, and the sense of safety, connection and expression they are able to develop."
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