The Princess of Wales surprised royal fans by revealing a “new name” while speaking Italian during a visit to Italy this week.
Catherine, who is still widely referred to as ‘Kate’ by many members of the public, introduced herself as “Catarina” while chatting with children during an engagement in Reggio Emilia near Bologna.
The Princess delighted locals as she demonstrated her little-seen Italian language skills during her first overseas visit since recovering from cancer treatment.
Speaking to a group of children, the royal said in Italian: “I speak a bit of Italian,” while gesturing with her fingers to indicate it was only a small amount.
She then warmly introduced herself, saying: “What is your name? I am Catarina.”
Catarina is the Italian form of Catherine and adds yet another variation to the Princess’s many titles and names over the years.
Before marrying Prince William, she was widely known as Kate Middleton. Following their wedding in 2011, the couple became the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge before later being created the Prince and Princess of Wales by King Charles III.
When in Scotland, the royal couple are officially styled the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay.
The Princess’s use of Italian may not come as a complete surprise to longtime royal watchers, as she spent time studying in Florence in 2000 before attending university.
However, it is one of the first times she has publicly showcased her ability to speak the language during an official engagement.
The visit to Italy forms part of Catherine’s ongoing work with the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, which she launched to promote the importance of children’s early development.
During the trip, the Princess visited the Loris Malaguzzi Centre, internationally recognised for its innovative child-centred educational approach.
In a message shared on social media, Catherine praised Reggio Emilia as “a city shaped by its belief in children and in the environments, relationships and connections that help them thrive in their early years”.
The Princess also visited the Anna Frank School and met excited crowds gathered in the streets to welcome her.
