The Princess of Wales, Catherine, is set to make her first official overseas trip in more than three years as she travels to Italy next week, marking a major milestone in her return to public duties following cancer treatment.
The two-day visit to the northern Italian city of Reggio Emilia on May 13 and 14 will be her first international royal engagement since December 2022, when she accompanied Prince William to Boston in the United States.
Kensington Palace said the trip will focus on Catherine’s long-standing advocacy for early childhood development, as she explores the city’s globally recognised Reggio Emilia educational approach, which promotes play-based learning, strong relationships, and child-led development.
During the visit, the Princess is expected to engage with educators, parents, children, local officials, and business leaders to better understand how the model supports early years education.
The trip comes as Catherine continues her gradual return to royal responsibilities after revealing in January 2025 that she was in remission following treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer. She has previously described the experience as life-changing and acknowledged the challenges of recovery.
Her return to international engagements is expected to draw significant public attention, given her popularity and growing role within the royal family.
The visit also aligns with the work of her Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, launched in 2021 to highlight how early childhood experiences shape long-term mental health, relationships, and wellbeing.
Ahead of the trip, the centre is also preparing to release a new guide titled Foundations for Life, aimed at supporting professionals who work with young children and families.
