Flowered Balconies: Made in Italy Day to Revive the Matese Villages

Flowered Balconies: Made in Italy Day for Matese villages

When: April 25 and May 1 • Where: Ciorlano and Raviscanina (Campania, Italy)

Two days focused on restoring the appeal of Matese villages through the "Flowered Balconies" contest, visits to historic centers and local museums, and tastings of regional specialties. The project is organized by Pro Loco Rupecanina together with Pro Loco Ciorlano and other EPLI member associations as part of Made in Italy Day activities.

Main programme

• April 25 - morning, Ciorlano: meeting in Piazza Vendettuoli, welcome toast and tour of the flowered balconies; walk through the medieval historic centre with visits to the Church of the Annunciation and the local castle.
• April 25 - lunch: meal featuring Matese specialties at the auditorium (traditional dishes available for tasting).
• April 25 - afternoon, Raviscanina: gathering at the municipal chamber, visits to the Madonna of Lourdes chapel and the small museum dedicated to Pope Celestine V, inauguration of the floral installations.
• May 1 - evening finale: awards for the best flowered balconies, live music, dancing in the main square and a food stand offering local dishes such as pasta and beans and bruschetta with fresh oil.

Why attend

The initiative aims to bring visitors back to villages experiencing depopulation by promoting the connection between landscape, historical memory and local products. Flowered balconies provide visible, low-cost improvement while walking routes between churches, castles and mini-museums tell the area's story.

Practical tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking in the historic centers.
• Check for any reservation requirements for lunches or guided visits.
• Arrive early at the scheduled meeting points.

Tip: take time to visit local artisans and producers — the link between local food and landscape enhances the cultural experience.