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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.
What does corona di alloro mean?
Corona di alloro means laurel crown. Laurel has long symbolised achievement in classical tradition, poetry and later academic celebrations. Today, many graduates in Italy wear a fresh crown for photographs and festivities. Practices differ by ceremony and personal preference.
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 the available laurel crown designs and arrange a suitable handover in Florence. For university or venue delivery, check access and timing with us before ordering. Collection by appointment on an available earlier day can be a calmer option for an early ceremony.
We recommend ordering at least 24 hours in advance, and more during the busiest graduation sessions in July and October.
Delivery and collection: plan before the ceremony or celebration
Allow at least 24 hours; 48 hours or more is recommended around busy graduation dates. Delivery operates Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays, to served Florence addresses. Same-day delivery is not available. A morning or afternoon preference is a request, not a guaranteed exact time.
Collection from the laboratory at Via Mario Roselli Cecconi 29/r–31/r is by appointment. Use RITIROBOTTEGA at checkout to deduct the delivery component and agree when to collect. An automatic Shopify estimate does not confirm your appointment.
See delivery and collection details, explore graduation flowers or contact us before ordering about a venue, a time-sensitive event or a bespoke design.
