What is a corona di alloro? Italy's graduation tradition explained

If you're studying in Florence — or if someone you love is graduating here — you've probably seen photos of students wearing a crown of green leaves, laughing in the piazza with friends and family around them. That's a corona di alloro, and it's one of Italy's most beautiful graduation traditions.

Here's everything you need to know.

What does corona di alloro mean?

Corona di alloro means laurel crown. Laurel has been a symbol of achievement since ancient Rome — it was worn by emperors, poets and scholars to mark greatness. In Italy, that tradition never died. When a student completes their university degree, they wear a fresh laurel crown during the celebration. It's worn at the moment of the proclamation, in the photos, and throughout the day of festivities with family and friends.

If you've ever wondered why a university graduate is called a laureato in Italian — that's where it comes from. The laurel crown is the origin of the word.

How does it work on graduation day in Florence?

In Florence, as in most Italian cities, the graduation ceremony (seduta di laurea) takes place at the university. After the thesis defense and the final vote, the graduate is officially proclaimed dottore or dottoressa. This is when the laurel crown is placed on their head — usually by a family member or close friend, right outside the building.

The photos happen immediately after. The crown needs to look fresh and hold its shape through hours of celebrations, hugs, and outdoor photos — which is why it matters to order one made with care and fresh materials, not one that wilts by lunchtime.

Who gives the corona di alloro?

Usually the family — parents, siblings, or a partner. Sometimes a group of close friends chips in together. It's a gift that marks the moment, and it stays in the photos forever. Choosing a well-made crown, with solid construction and fresh laurel, makes a real difference in how it looks and how long it lasts.

Can I order a corona di alloro online in Florence?

Yes — and it's actually the easiest way to do it, especially if you're coming from outside the city or coordinating with family abroad.

On Fiorit you can choose from a range of laurel crowns — classic, with red roses, with berries, with gypsophila — and have it delivered directly to the graduation address in Florence. Or you can arrange to pick it up at the workshop the day before, which is what many families prefer to avoid any stress on the day itself.

We recommend ordering at least 24 hours in advance, and more during the busiest graduation sessions in July and October.

👉 Browse laurel crowns for graduation in Florence