If you’re visiting in spring or autumn, you’ll likely spot laurel wreaths in Italy everywhere — a sign that graduation season is in full swing.
Italy produces nearly half a million corone di alloro (laurel wreaths) each year — and it’s not just a symbolic gesture. This tradition is vibrant, joyful, and impossible to miss in cities like Rome, Bologna, Milan, Padua, Florence, and Urbino.
A Crown of Victory
The laurel wreath, made from fresh green leaves and usually adorned with ribbons or flowers, marks the completion of a university degree — bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD. The symbolism comes from ancient Rome, where laurel represented victory, wisdom, and honour. It was also worn by poets and philosophers — and later, by graduates. Even Dante, who studied in Bologna, is often linked to this tradition.
In fact, the word “laureate” comes from laurus — Latin for laurel. That connection to classical prestige is part of why laurel wreaths in Italy still carry so much weight today.
Ribbons, Colours, and Inside Jokes
While the wreath itself is usually green, the ribbons often reflect the graduate’s field of study. Red is the most common — used in law and as a general symbol of good luck. White might stand for literature, green for sciences. But this varies from university to university, and not everyone follows the code strictly.
Just like the meaning behind laurel wreaths in Italy, the ribbons are full of symbolism too.
Some students opt for clean, classic wreaths. Others get playful. In Padua, it’s common to see wreaths with added touches: toys, mini bottles, funny photos, ironic accessories. It’s all part of the celebration.
From Florist to Bookshelf
Wreaths are usually bought at local florists, who prep them fresh — sometimes in huge batches during peak season. The laurel leaves themselves often come from farms in central and southern Italy, where bay laurel is grown specifically for this purpose. Prices range from €25 to €45, depending on the design and extras like satin ribbons, dried flowers, or gold lettering. They’re often a gift from family or close friends.
Some students keep them for years, dried and slightly brittle, hanging on a hook or tucked into a bookshelf. Others toss them after a weekend of celebration and prosecco-soaked hugs. Both approaches are valid.
Graduation Day, Italian Style
Graduation in Italy is rarely quiet. Expect laughter, hugs, wine, group photos, maybe a few students in costumes — bathrobes, togas, or whatever gets a laugh — and plenty of playful “challenges” from classmates. In some cities, grads must read a funny biography written by friends — often mildly embarrassing and full of inside jokes.
It’s joyful, chaotic, proud, and incredibly photogenic.
Still Going Strong
So if you’re in Italy and wondering why everyone’s suddenly wearing leafy crowns — now you know. Laurel wreaths in Italy are a living tradition: joyful, historic, and always worth noticing.
