Buckingham Palace has officially confirmed that Kate Middleton will travel to Italy next week for her first overseas royal visit since revealing her cancer diagnosis.
Kensington Palace announced on Wednesday that the Princess of Wales will make the solo trip to Reggio Emilia in northern Italy as part of her continued work focusing on early childhood development.
The visit will mark Catherine’s first official foreign engagement in more than three years.
According to the palace statement, the two-day visit will centre around the renowned Reggio Emilia Approach, an educational philosophy that encourages children’s self-development through supportive environments, creativity and human connection.
“The Princess is very much looking forward to visiting Italy next week and seeing first-hand how the Reggio Emilia approach creates environments where nature and loving human relationships come together to support children’s development,” a Kensington Palace spokesperson said.
The Palace also noted that the specialist educational approach closely aligns with the work being carried out through Catherine’s Centre for Early Childhood.
Catherine, who is married to heir to the throne Prince William, confirmed in January 2025 that she was in remission from cancer and has gradually resumed public duties in recent months.
During the visit, the Princess of Wales is expected to meet educators and child development specialists while learning more about how the Reggio Emilia philosophy supports young children and families.
Following Kensington Palace’s announcement, the royal family also confirmed the visit in its official court circular.
The diary entry stated: “13 May 2026, The Princess of Wales, Joint Patron, The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales, will visit Reggio Emilia, Italy.”
