Every spring, the medieval streets of Castelbuono are transformed into an extraordinary open-air gallery of living art.
The Infiorata — literally "strewn with flowers" — is one of Sicily's most visually spectacular annual events. Via Sant'Anna, the ancient cobbled street leading from Piazza Margherita up to the thousand-year-old Ventimiglia Castle, is closed to traffic and covered entirely in elaborate floral mosaics, painstakingly created from fresh petals, wheat ears, daisies, wild fennel and other natural materials gathered from the Madonie countryside.
The tradition begins on the evening of 30th May with the Lunga Notte dell'Infiorata — the Long Night of the Infiorata — when master flower artists, schoolchildren and volunteers work through the night from 15:30 until dawn to lay 21 intricate floral compositions by hand. The results must be seen to be believed.
This year's edition carries special significance: the 2026 Infiorata has received official national patronage as part of Italy's celebrations marking the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi. On 31st May, the sacred relic of Saint Francis will be brought to Castelbuono in a moving ceremony, with the official inauguration and blessing of the floral carpets at 18:00, presided over by the Bishop of Cefalù.
The festival combines breathtaking visual art, deep religious tradition, historical pageantry and the warm community spirit for which Castelbuono is renowned.
Free to attend. Via Sant'Anna, Castelbuono, Sicily
Event information is provided in good faith but may be subject to change. We recommend checking with official sources before travelling.