Occurs annually in May. Exact dates for 2023 are April 25 – May 20, while dates for 2024 and 2025 may vary.
Free
The Iris Garden in Full Bloom is an annual event held in Florence, Italy, during the month of May.
This unique botanical garden, located near Piazzale Michelangelo, is dedicated to celebrating the beauty of iris flowers. With over 1,500 varieties of colorful irises, the garden comes alive with vibrant colors and sweet fragrances.
The event also includes the annual International Iris Competition, where hybridizers from around the world compete for the most beautiful iris hybrid. Visitors can stroll through the garden, admiring the breathtaking view of the city and enjoying the stunning display of irises in their full splendor.
As an ongoing event, the garden is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00 during the event period, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy the beautiful irises at their leisure.
The Iris Garden is an integral part of Florence’s history and culture, symbolizing the city’s long-standing connection with the iris flower. Located near Piazzale Michelangelo, the garden offers a green oasis in the heart of the city, providing locals and visitors alike with a unique and beautiful experience.
The Iris Garden was established in 1954 to host the first International Iris Competition in Florence.
The city has a long-standing connection with the iris flower, which has been the symbol of Florence since 1251.
According to legend, the fortunes of the Florentines turned during a battle in 405 when St. Reparata appeared with a banner displaying a white iris.
As a symbol of gratitude, Florence adopted the iris for its coat of arms. The Iris Garden has since become an important reserve of germplasm (iris seed bank) and a destination for botanists, hybridizers, and horticulturists worldwide.
