Princess Beatrice of York and her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, have welcomed their second child, a daughter named Athena Elizabeth Rose, born prematurely on January 22 at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London. Weighing 4 pounds and 5 ounces, Athena is reported to be healthy and doing well. The couple, who also have a three-year-old daughter named Sienna and Edoardo’s eight-year-old son, Wolfie, expressed their joy and gratitude for the exceptional care provided by the hospital staff.
The birth of Athena came as a surprise, as Princess Beatrice was initially due in early spring. Due to medical advice, she canceled overseas Christmas plans and remained in the UK. The royal family, including King Charles and Queen Camilla, have been informed and are delighted with the news.
In a personal essay for British Vogue, Princess Beatrice opened up about the emotional challenges she faced during her pregnancy and the premature birth of Athena. She described the experience as “months of sheer worry” and expressed a determination to support research into women’s health to address complications related to preterm births. Beatrice has since become a patron of Borne, a charity dedicated to funding research into the causes of premature birth.
The name Athena honors the late Queen Elizabeth II, with “Elizabeth” serving as a middle name, a tribute also shared by Athena’s older sister, Sienna. The couple shared a photograph of Athena, taken by Edoardo, showing the newborn wrapped in a pink blanket.
Princess Beatrice’s return to public life includes her first high-profile appearance since Athena’s birth. On May 13, she joined King Charles and Queen Camilla at the Elephant Family’s “Wonders of the Wild” charity event at Kew Gardens. This event supports conservation efforts and was established by Queen Camilla’s late brother, Mark Shand. Beatrice’s participation underscores her commitment to royal duties and conservation initiatives.
The royal family continues to celebrate the arrival of baby Athena, and Princess Beatrice’s openness about her experience has highlighted the importance of supporting research into preterm birth and women’s health.