Thousands of flower petals covered the cobblestones around St. Peter's Basilica for a special celebration of the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, the patron saints of Rome.
PABLO MASI
Artist
The creative part is of course the design but the material is beautiful. The flower has perfume; it has smell; it has volume. It is a matter of looking for a good flower and cutting it. Some flowers are bought; others we gather from the field. It is a very physical process and very beautiful. Seeing the images come out of the pavement in bloom is magical. It is beautiful.
Pablo's creation is filled with elements related to Pope Francis, including the flags of the Vatican and Argentina and the colors of the Pope's favorite soccer team.
PABLO MASI
Artist
You realize that there is an Argentinian hand there for sure. Yes, because there are several signs that you will recognize.
I would love for the Pope to see it. I have the original there and if it's possible, I'll give it to him.
This marks the 10th year of the Historical Infiorata of Rome. Associations from all over Italy traveled to the Eternal City to decorate the area around the Vatican with unique designs.
RENZO MARINELLI
Advisory Council, Marche Region, Italy
The theme was peace and at a time like this, I think there is a real need for it. So through the dove, which is a symbol of peace, we tried to give a message. We are here in a place that it is unique in the world, so by presenting this symbol, we hope it will be a sign of peace that goes all over the world since there is really a need.
ROSARIA CAPUANO
President, Serra in Fiora Association
We brought Jesus because he is the true symbol of peace.
This tradition was born at the beginning of the 17th century by Benedetto Drei, the head Vatican florist, who decorated the outskirts of the Basilica with floral carpets.
MAURO ABBONDANZA
Director, Pro Loco Roma Capitale Association
In Rome, from 1625 to 1682, it was customary to place floral images in honor of the patron saints, Peter and Paul, and in honor of the Holy Father. We have rediscovered this very ancient tradition and we can say that we have rediscovered it in Rome. This is the 10th year that we have done it and we are very happy. Bernini himself even supervised the work in the 17th century.
After the death of Benedetto Drei, it was Bernini who continued to supervise the creation of the floral works. This ancient tradition had been lost over time but once again will continue to decorate the streets of the Vatican for years to come.
CA/SA
TR: AT
