Catherine draws crowds in Reggio Emilia Italy on return abroad

Catherine drew cheering crowds in reggio emilia italy as she returned to overseas visits after cancer treatment, walking through a sunny piazza and greeting people who shouted and held up a home-made poster that read “Ciao Kate”. She shook hands and posed for selfies during the walkabout.

Loris Malaguzzi International Centre

At the Loris Malaguzzi International Centre, the Princess of Wales met educators and heard more about the Reggio Emilia approach, which emphasizes children’s relationships and learning through play. Catherine told staff, “I have learnt so much. It has been really inspiring,” after spending time with them in the city chosen for its support for children’s first years.

Reggio Emilia’s welcome

The reception was unusually warm for an overseas appearance from Catherine, who had not attended such an event abroad for more than three years. Paolo Rosato said, “Catherine is very popular here in Italy,” and added, “They see Kate as a story that follows Diana,” while Michael Cocchi, who came from nearby Parma with flowers, said, “I think the Royal Family still has an important role in British culture.”

Italy and early years education

The visit also underlined why Reggio Emilia was selected: the city has built a reputation around children’s first years, and Catherine has been campaigning to raise awareness about early years education. She also tried out her Italian language skills with some of the children, drawing on what she learned during a gap year in Florence after leaving school.