Athena’s arrival is seen as a nod to her great-grandfather, Prince Philip, who was born in Corfu in 1921 as a member of the Greek royal family. His parents, Prince Andrew of Greece and Denmark and Princess Alice of Battenberg, were part of Greece’s royal lineage, making Athena’s name a subtle tribute to her ancestry.

A Royal Shake-Up

With her birth, Athena has officially changed the royal line of succession. She now sits at 11th in line for the throne, moving her aunt, Princess Eugenie, down to the 12th spot.

Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Athena has been chosen for a royal baby in 2024. Lady Kitty Spencer, the niece of Princess Diana, also named her daughter Athena this year, keeping the name within the extended family.

Reaction from the public

The response to Athena’s birth has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans have flooded social media with heartfelt messages for the new parents.

One admirer gushed, “Oh, welcome to the world beautiful tiny tot. Congratulations to you all xxx,” while another wrote, “Awwww! So happy for them! She is gorgeous!!!!”

Close friends of the family have also expressed their happiness, especially praising Beatrice’s natural maternal instincts. Her friend Gabriella Peacock shared, “She’s extremely nurturing and involved with both kids’ lives. It’s lovely to see my best friend growing into this next stage of her life.”

Three children

Athena is Beatrice and Edoardo’s second child together, following their daughter Sienna’s birth in 2021. However, she’s not just gaining a big sister—she also has an adoring older brother.

Edoardo’s son, Wolfie, from a previous relationship, is already head over heels for his new baby sister. Edoardo sweetly described him as being “besotted” with little Athena.

Edoardo has been a devoted father to Wolfie since 2016, and Princess Beatrice, who is 9th in line to the throne, has fully embraced her role as a stepmother. Friends close to the couple have nothing but praise for their parenting. “Bea has such a good heart and she’s such a kind person, so motherhood came very naturally to her,” shared a close friend. “She’s a fantastic mom.”

Princess Beatrice and Edoardo are overjoyed with their new addition, describing their hearts as “overflowing with love.” With a name rich in history and meaning, Athena is already making waves, even though she’s only been in the world for a few weeks.

We can’t wait to see what the future holds for this little princess! What do you think of her name? Drop your thoughts in the comments!