Kate Middleton
Kate Middleton spoke one word of Italian during her trip to Leicester. Pictured: Middleton greets well wishers at Leicester University on November 28, 2018 in Leicester, United Kingdom. Getty Images/Phil Noble-WPA Pool

Kate Middleton recently surprised royal fans by speaking a foreign language during her recent visit to Leicester City.

One royal fan told Middleton that she was from Italy, and the mom of three spoke to her in Italian. “How shall we say, ciao?” I have to practice my languages, they are so bad,” Middleton said (via Express).

The Duchess of Cambridge also expressed her hope for her three children that they may grow up to speak a slew of foreign languages. “My language is so bad, I have to make sure my children are better than me,” she said.

Middleton spent three months in Italy many years ago during her gap year from the university. While there, she spent three hours a day learning Italian alongside her Renaissance art lectures.

Meanwhile, it has been revealed that other members of the royal family also speak some foreign languages. For instance, Queen Elizabeth II can speak French fluently. Prince Charles tried learning Welsh, and Prince Harry has spoken Arabic. Prince George and Princess Charlotte can speak Spanish.

Etiquette expert Myka Meier said that learning how to speak the basic words in different languages is a sign of respect especially for royals that frequently travel across the globe.

“It is the correct protocol to practice the etiquette of the country or the culture you are visiting, in order to show respect, so each royal knows how to make the best first impression,” she told Reader’s Digest.

In related news, Middleton also made headlines this week after it was reported that she is feuding with Meghan Markle. According to People, the Duchesses are not the best of friends, but they did get along well during last year’s Christmas celebration in Sandringham.

“They really loved Christmas and all had a wonderful time… It was a really special time for them all to spend together,” the source said.