The Infiorata di Noto is an annual festival held in the city of Noto, located in the province of Syracuse in southeastern Sicily, Italy. The festival is held on the third Sunday of May each year and celebrates the art of flower arranging.
The Infiorata di Noto is a unique and colorful event that attracts visitors from all over the world. The word “infiorata” comes from the Italian word “fiore,” which means “flower.” During the festival, the streets of Noto are adorned with intricate designs made entirely of flower petals.
The tradition of the Infiorata dates back to the seventeenth century and is thought to have originated in Rome. The festival was introduced to Noto in 1980 by the artist Franco Zuccarello, who was inspired by the flower carpets that he had seen in Spain.
Preparations for the Infiorata begin months in advance, with local residents and visitors coming together to create the intricate designs that will be displayed on the streets of Noto. The designs are created using a wide range of colorful flowers, including roses, daisies, carnations, and poppies.
The festival officially begins on the Saturday before the third Sunday of May with the opening of the Flower Market. The market is located in the Piazza XVI Maggio and offers visitors the opportunity to purchase a wide range of flowers and plants.
On the morning of the third Sunday of May, the streets of Noto are closed to traffic and the Infiorata begins. The designs are created on the streets using chalk outlines, which are then filled in with the colorful petals of flowers.
The designs are created by local artists and volunteers who work tirelessly throughout the night to ensure that the designs are complete by the time the festival begins. The designs are typically based on a specific theme, which changes each year.
One of the most popular designs at the Infiorata is the one that depicts religious figures. The designs often feature depictions of the Madonna and Child, as well as other important religious figures.
Visitors to the Infiorata can walk along the streets and admire the beautiful designs, which range in size from small, intricate designs to larger, more elaborate creations. The festival also features live music and performances, as well as food and drink stalls.
One of the highlights of the Infiorata is the procession that takes place on the Sunday evening. The procession is led by the local bishop, who carries the statue of the Madonna through the streets of Noto.
The procession is accompanied by the sounds of traditional Sicilian music and the streets are lined with cheering crowds. The procession ends at the Cathedral of San Nicolò, where the statue of the Madonna is placed on the altar and a special Mass is held to mark the end of the festival.
The Infiorata di Noto is a beautiful and unique festival that celebrates the art of flower arranging and the rich cultural heritage of Sicily. The festival is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to experience the beauty and charm of Noto, and to participate in a celebration that has been a part of the city’s history for centuries.
The Cathedral of San Nicolò is a particularly impressive sight, with its ornate facade and intricate interior decorations. Visitors can also explore the nearby Palazzo Ducezio, which was once the seat of the local government and is now home to the city’s art museum.
The Infiorata is just one of many festivals and events that take place in Noto throughout the year. Other popular events include the Noto Jazz Festival, which takes place in August, and the Noto Food Festival, which celebrates the city’s culinary traditions in October.
Overall, the Infiorata di Noto is a must-see event for anyone visiting Sicily in May. The festival is a wonderful celebration of art, culture, and tradition, and offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of this historic city. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, the Infiorata is sure to impress.