The Princess of Wales is – and has been – known by many names. While she now chooses Catherine, she’s affectionately referred to as Kate by the wider public, who still remember her maiden name, Kate Middleton. After marrying Prince William, the pair became the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, before King Charles took the throne, and then they became the Prince and Princess of Wales, as they are known now. Unless, of course, they’re in Scotland, then the pair are officially titled the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay. It’s quite a lot to keep up with!
And, now, it seems there’s yet another name to add to the list, which the Princess has been using during her trip to Italy. This week, Kate touched down in the European nation for her first overseas visit since her cancer recovery, and delighted the Italian public in Reggio Emilia (near Bologna). In one particularly adorable moment, Kate stopped to introduce herself to a group of children, and showed off some of her unseen language skills – revealing a new name in the process.
‘I speak a bit of Italian,’ Kate told them, in Italian, closing her fingers together to show it was a small amount. ‘What is your name? I am Catarina.’ Catarina is the Italian equivalent of Catherine, and it’s possible Kate may have gone by this name in the past, as she spent time studying in Florence in 2000. While it was known Kate had some knowledge of Italian, we haven’t yet seen her put these language skills into practice.
The Princess of Wales is in Italy as part of her work on early years development with the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, which she launched. Kate is visiting to learn more about Reggio Emilia’s innovative approach to teaching and raising young children. In a post on Instagram, the Princess said that Reggio Emilia is ‘a city shaped by its belief in children and in the environments, relationships and connections that help them thrive in their early years’.
Kate arrived on Wednesday (13 May) and had a busy first day, visiting the Loris Malaguzzi Centre, where children learn through movement and practical crafts, as well as meeting with educators from around the world to learn more about the innovative approach.
The Princess also visited children at Anna Frank School, and met with many locals excitedly lining the streets to welcome her. For her first day, the Princess chose a two piece blue suit by Edeline Lee, and looked happy, relaxed and energised as she went about her busy day. Her visit continues.
