Straight out of an old Italian film, the first Sunday of June small villages around our area celebrate La Fiorita by decorating the streets in flower petals followed by a procession through town led by the priest, clergy, band, mayor & townspeople. This is one of the most beautiful traditions of our area honoring Corpus Cristi.

An hour before the procession, the townspeople gather with boxes over-flowing with sweet smelling flowers & vibrant colored petals of roses, lilies & daisies. A friendly neighbor has come by early & created frames with sprigs of rosemary to be filled with pictures made of flowers. From young to old they meticulously place each petal with pride.

As the priest leads the villagers through town sharing blessings, he breaks through this most beautiful offering. I nod at the Mayor with a smile, wink at 13 year old Mariellena, acknowledging the plumber too as he passes.

I love being part this community and sharing in the traditions of this wonderful Italian culture!

Ashley Bartner is the Living in Italy Editor for Wandering Educators.
La Tavola Marche Agriturismo & Cooking Holiday
http://www.latavolamarche.com