Princess Catherine arrived in Reggio Emilia for her inaugural engagement during her Italian visit, receiving a warm welcome at Piazza Camillo Prampolini.
Mayor Marco Massari greeted Catherine outside the square, which houses both the Town Hall and mayoral offices.
Following their meeting, the Mayor presented the Princess of Wales to Salvatore Angieri, the Prefect of Reggio Emilia.
The civic leaders then escorted Catherine into the historic Town Hall building, marking the beginning of her official programme in the northern Italian city renowned for its pioneering approach to early childhood education.
Mayor Marco Massari greeted Catherine outside the square, which houses both the Town Hall and mayoral offices.
|PA
Within the Town Hall, Catherine participated in discussions examining the historical, cultural and educational factors that gave rise to the celebrated Reggio Emilia approach to early years learning.
The conversation highlighted the city's deep-rooted commitment to prioritising childhood development, offering the Princess direct insight into the civic engagement that forms the foundation of Reggio Emilia's educational identity.
Civil leaders were joined by three women who played instrumental roles in developing the philosophy: Carla Nironi, Iona Bartoli and Eletta Bertani.
All three were born around the outbreak of the Second World War and contributed significantly to shaping the educational approach that has since gained international recognition.
The Princess of Wales arrived in Reggio Emilia for her inaugural engagement during her Italian visit, receiving a warm welcome at Piazza Camillo Prampolini.
|PA
Catherine also toured the Sala del Tricolore, a chamber within the Town Hall where the modern Italian flag was first created in 1797.
The room continues to serve as the venue for City Council meetings and major civic ceremonies.
During her visit to this historic space, the Princess of Wales received the 'Primo Tricolore', representing the city's most prestigious accolade.
The civic leaders then escorted Catherine into the historic Town Hall building, marking the beginning of her official programme in the northern Italian city renowned for its pioneering approach to early childhood education.
|PA
During her visit to this historic space, the Princess of Wales received the 'Primo Tricolore', representing the city's most prestigious accolade.
|PA
The honour was bestowed in recognition of her dedication to early years initiatives.
This distinction is reserved for individuals or organisations whose contributions have made substantial civic, cultural, scientific or democratic impact, frequently on an international scale.
Before departing, Catherine had the opportunity to greet members of the public gathered in the square.