Princess Beatrice has welcomed her “tiny and absolutely perfect” baby daughter, Athena, after giving birth several weeks premature. The late Queen’s granddaughter’s second child arrived on January 22, weighing just 4lb 5oz. Despite her early arrival, both mother and baby are said to be doing well and are now safely at home, Buckingham Palace confirmed.
Beatrice’s husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, took to social media to express his joy, saying that both he and the princess are “completely besotted” with their new daughter. He shared: “Our hearts are overflowing with love for you, baby Athena.” Mr Mapelli Mozzi also extended his gratitude to the medical team at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London, where Athena was born, for their “exceptional care” during the delivery.
Athena was born prematurely, with Beatrice, 36, initially due to give birth in early spring. The princess had received medical advice in December, advising her against long-distance travel. In fact, she adjusted her Christmas plans to spend the holiday with the royal family in Sandringham, after doctors warned her that a premature birth was a possibility. Beatrice, however, remained calm throughout the process, and her family is now adjusting to life with their new addition.
The couple shared a sweet photo of their daughter, taken by Mr Mapelli Mozzi, showing Athena wrapped in a pink blanket with her face partially hidden by her arm. The little one has dark hair and was dressed in a white long-sleeved garment. The family is reportedly enjoying spending time together at home, where Athena is being lovingly cared for by her older siblings, three-year-old Sienna and Mr Mapelli Mozzi’s son, eight-year-old Wolfie, from his previous relationship.
The name Athena was chosen by Beatrice and Edo because they loved it. While the name is steeped in Greek mythology, where Athena was the goddess of wisdom, war, and handicrafts, the couple simply found it to be perfect for their daughter. Athena’s middle name, Elizabeth, pays homage to Beatrice’s beloved late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in 2022.
A statement from Buckingham Palace confirmed the news, stating that Athena Elizabeth Rose Mapelli Mozzi was born at 12.57 pm on January 22, weighing 4lb 5oz. The King and Queen, as well as other royal family members, have been informed and are delighted by the new arrival.
Princess Beatrice’s mother, Sarah, Duchess of York, shared her joy on social media, expressing: “She is already so adored and I’m incredibly blessed to be a Granny once again.” Sarah also expressed how proud she was of her daughter and son-in-law, saying, “So proud of Edo, Beatrice and the rest of my little 5-a-side team!”
As the 11th in line to the throne, Athena also holds the distinction of being the niece of Beatrice’s sister, Princess Eugenie. Eugenie shared her excitement on Instagram Stories, welcoming her new niece with the heartfelt post, “Welcome Baby Girl.”
In a royal family that has seen many joyful moments recently, Athena’s birth is a symbol of new beginnings and fresh joy. The King and Queen, as well as the entire royal family, are said to be thrilled by the arrival of the newest member of the royal fold.
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Athena is not the first royal baby to be born prematurely. Lady Louise Windsor, the daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, was born four weeks early in 2003, weighing 4lb 9oz. However, unlike Lady Louise’s emergency caesarean, it is understood that Beatrice did not need to be rushed to the hospital by ambulance.
Princess Beatrice and Mr Mapelli Mozzi married in a low-key, secret wedding in 2020 after their original plans were delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The wedding, which was attended by Beatrice’s grandparents, the Queen and Prince Philip, was a quiet affair compared to the grandeur of royal weddings that came before.
Although not a full-time working royal, Beatrice is involved in a number of charitable causes and holds several royal patronages. She works as an adviser for Afiniti, an artificial intelligence company, and co-founded The Big Change Charitable Trust, an initiative dedicated to improving education for young people.
As the royal family continues to grow, the arrival of Athena adds to the excitement surrounding the younger generations, with Beatrice and Edo excitedly embracing their new role as parents of two.
