Genzano di Roma
A hill town near Rome known for its June flower carpet festival
Genzano di Roma is a town in the Alban Hills, about 29 km from Rome, Italy. Each June, its main street is decorated with large flower carpets for the Infiorata festival, a tradition that brings together art, religion, and community.
- Each June, a street is covered with flower carpets for the Infiorata
- The Infiorata tradition began in 1778
- Artists and townspeople create designs from flower petals
- The event includes a parade in traditional dress
- Genzano di Roma sits in the Alban Hills near Rome
What is Genzano di Roma?
Genzano di Roma is a small town set on hills overlooking Lake Nemi, not far from Rome. Its streets are lined with historic buildings, churches, and palaces. The town is especially known for the Infiorata, when Via Italo Belardi is transformed with elaborate flower carpets. Visitors also find gardens, fountains, and a cathedral among its main sights.
The history of Genzano di Roma
The area has been settled since Roman times, with remains of ancient villas nearby. The town grew around a castle built by Cistercian monks in the 13th century. Over the centuries, it passed through several noble families and was redesigned in the early 1700s. The name 'Genzano di Roma' was adopted in 1873 to distinguish it from another Genzano in Italy.
What there is to see
During the Infiorata in June, artists and townspeople create large, detailed designs on the main street using flower petals. Each year, the designs follow a chosen theme, and local women make costumes for a parade. Children also take part in a smaller version of the event, making their own flower carpets.
When to go
The Infiorata is held every June and draws both locals and visitors. The event includes a parade in traditional and medieval dress, and the flower carpets remain on display for the duration. Outside the festival, Genzano di Roma offers historic sites, gardens, and views of the surrounding hills.
Parts and collections
The main Infiorata covers Via Italo Belardi, but in recent years, local schoolchildren have started a 'mini Infiorata.' Each festival features new artistic themes, sometimes inspired by famous artists like Michelangelo or Bernini.
Why Genzano di Roma matters
The Infiorata blends religious observance with local tradition and artistic expression. It began in 1778 and has become a symbol of the town's identity. The event is a time for community gathering and celebration, with costumes, art, and flowers all playing a part.
Questions people ask about Genzano di Roma
Where is Genzano di Roma located?
Genzano di Roma is in the Alban Hills, about 29 kilometers from Rome, Italy. It is part of the Lazio region and is one of the Castelli Romani towns.
What is the Infiorata festival?
The Infiorata is a yearly event in June where the main street is decorated with large, artistic carpets made from flower petals. It includes a parade with participants in traditional and medieval costumes.
How old is the Infiorata tradition in Genzano di Roma?
The Infiorata has been held since 1778, making it a tradition of over two centuries in the town.
What can visitors see in Genzano di Roma?
Visitors can see the flower carpets during the Infiorata, as well as historic sites like the Sforza Cesarini Palace, gardens, churches, and views of Lake Nemi.
Are there any special activities for children during the festival?
Yes, local schoolchildren participate in a 'mini Infiorata,' creating their own flower carpets as part of the celebrations.
Good reading and sources
- Genzano di Roma on WikipediaEncyclopedia
- More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
- Wikidata recordOpen data
The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Genzano di Roma", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Phool rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.
It may contain mistakes. Opening times, prices and bloom dates change: check with the place before you travel. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-03.
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