The Cavalcade of the Magi in Florence

Among the parades and pageants that have made Florence famous, the Cavalcade of the Magi (Wise Men) stands out as a must-see event.

The feast of the Epiphany, which is held on January 6, marks the end of the 12 days of Christmas. In Florence, the Epiphany is celebrated with a procession through the city known as the Cavalcade of the Magi, which dates back to the 1400s.

Now in its seventeenth year, the renewed tradition includes a 700–strong parade of men and women in Renaissance costumes, who accompany the Wise Men as they make the journey from Palazzo Pitti to the cathedral, where a live nativity waits to meet them.

However during its early days, a fraternity known as the brotherhood of the Magi or Star used to lead the procession, imitating the biblical story of the three Wise Men by taking their own offerings to the church of San Marco.

Taking part in this procession was a number of famous Florentines including, somewhat controversially, supporters of the Medici family. When these same men were famously expelled from Florence, the custom went with them and was lost for centuries.

It’s no coincidence, therefore, that a fresco of the The Wise Men procession featuring members of the Medici family is an import part of the Benozzo Gozzoli chapel, at Palazzo Medici Riccardi. You will have to go there to believe it!)

Come to Florence and discover the Florentine traditions with our tours!