Flower Carpet of Corpus Christi

A carpet of flowers in the heart of a medieval abbey

Every year, on the occasion of the solemnity of Corpus Christi, the central nave of the Cistercian Abbey of Chiaravalle della Colomba is transformed into an extraordinary ephemeral work of art: the Infiorata. A long carpet of petals, leaves, and flowers winds from the entrance to the presbytery, forming a series of large sacred and eucharistic-themed artworks that change each year. The event takes place in Chiaravalle della Colomba, a hamlet of the Municipality of Alseno, in the province of Piacenza, in the heart of the Val d'Arda region.

The origins of the tradition

The tradition of flower carpets dates back to the 13th century, when Pope Urban IV instituted the feast of Corpus Christi, solemnized by the famous procession preceded by the scattering of flower petals along the streets. To avoid wasting the petals trampled in a few hours, the Cistercian monks chose to give new value to this practice, creating real floral carpets along the naves of their majestic abbeys. In Chiaravalle della Colomba, this custom has become an anticipated event, uniting devotion, art, and the identity of the local community.

The Abbey of Chiaravalle della Colomba

Founded in 1136, the Abbey of Chiaravalle della Colomba is one of the most important Cistercian complexes in northern Italy, with its Gothic-style church, cloister, and atmosphere of contemplation that make it the ideal setting for the Infiorata. The contrast between the austerity of the medieval stones and the vibrant colors of the flowers is what makes this event unique.

How the floral carpet is created

The carpet is made entirely by hand by the monks and volunteers from the Pro Loco and the parish, who work with great patience and dedication. Flower petals, leaves, and twigs are arranged to create designs and "paintings" that follow a different theme each year. Once inaugurated on the Sunday of Corpus Christi, the artwork remains on display and can be visited for about two weeks, releasing an intense fragrance that fills the nave.

Music, culture, and walking

A rich calendar of events revolves around the Infiorata: the opening Mass and Eucharistic Procession, a series of evening concerts of sacred, medieval, and lyrical music inside the abbey, and the traditional Flower Carpet Walk, a non-competitive walk through the fields of Val d'Arda. Exhibitions and craft markets are also held in the cloister. Admission to all events is free.