Oratorio di San Tiburzio
Experience 'Florilegium,' a breathtaking installation of 200,000 dried flowers, within Parma's historic Baroque Oratorio di San Tiburzio.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Open for exhibitions
Oratorio di San Tiburzio
Best Time
Open for exhibitions
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience 'Florilegium,' a breathtaking installation of 200,000 dried flowers, within Parma's historic Baroque Oratorio di San Tiburzio.
"An incredible exhibition of flowers cascading from the ceiling of this amazing deconsecrated church. A must-see."
🎯 Check Event Calendar First
This oratorio is often closed; verify exhibition/event dates before visiting.
💰 'Donation' Fee Clarification
Be aware of the €2 'donation' for Florilegium; it's sometimes mandatory.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Florilegium Exhibition
Inside the Oratorio
An immersive installation of 200,000 dried flowers, symbolizing Parma's inhabitants. A breathtaking floral spectacle.
Baroque Facade
Exterior of the Oratorio
Admire the distinctive and beautiful Baroque architecture of this historic building, a hidden gem on a side street.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Times & Events
Understand the 'Donation' Policy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Calendar First
This oratorio is often closed; verify exhibition/event dates before visiting.
💰 'Donation' Fee Clarification
Be aware of the €2 'donation' for Florilegium; it's sometimes mandatory.
👃 Experience the Scent
The floral exhibition is known for its beautiful scent.
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
The cascading flowers create a magical, ethereal ambiance perfect for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Calendar First
This oratorio is often closed; verify exhibition/event dates before visiting.
💰 'Donation' Fee Clarification
Be aware of the €2 'donation' for Florilegium; it's sometimes mandatory.
👃 Experience the Scent
The floral exhibition is known for its beautiful scent.
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
The cascading flowers create a magical, ethereal ambiance perfect for photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the stunning 'Florilegium' floral installation, praising its beauty and immersive atmosphere. However, some reviews highlight issues with inconsistent opening hours and a mandatory 'donation' policy that feels less voluntary, leading to frustration for some.
"This church is a significant example of Baroque Parma, built by architect Adalberto Dalla Nave in 1722 and completed with additions by the architect Pancrazio Soncini a century and a half later. It’s permanently closed now according to a local. Open only for exhibits n events. Can check with local tourism office on the event calendar."
Pauline Yoong
"Stunning and it smells like flowers! 2 euros to enter and make sure you try to go to the top."
M Ramachandran
"Incredible exhibition .. a wonderful display of flower cascading front the ceiling of this amazing deconsecrated church. A must see."
Max Scaglia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Oratorio di San Tiburzio is located on a small side street behind Piazza Garibaldi in Parma. It's easily accessible on foot from the city center.
Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging due to its central location. It's best to use public parking garages in Parma and walk to the oratorio.
Parma is well-connected by train, with frequent services from major Italian cities like Milan, Bologna, and Florence. The city also has an airport (Parma Airport - PMF) with limited connections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Oratorio di San Tiburzio is often closed as a church and typically opens only for specific exhibitions and events like the Florilegium. Always check the event calendar.
Admission for the Florilegium exhibition is often advertised as free, but some visitors report a mandatory 'minimum donation' of €2.
Information on advance booking is scarce. It's best to check the official event listings or contact the organizing association for details on how to secure entry, especially during peak times.
Opening hours vary greatly depending on the exhibition or event. For the Florilegium, it was typically open on Saturdays and Sundays. Always confirm current hours.
If you encounter a mandatory donation that feels like a fixed fee, some visitors have reported contacting local authorities like the Carabinieri or Guardia di Finanza.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside for personal use, especially for the Florilegium exhibition, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions on-site.
The cascading flowers from the ceiling create a magical atmosphere. Try to capture the scale and the delicate details of the flowers from different angles.
Consider using a wider lens to capture the immersive nature of the floral installation. Soft, natural light often enhances the ethereal feel.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Tradition suggests it's the oldest church in Parma, possibly built in the 5th century on a Roman temple site. It was later rebuilt in the Baroque style in 1722.
The Baroque structure was primarily built by architect Adalberto Dalla Nave in 1722, with later additions by Pancrazio Soncini.
The Oratorio is a significant example of Baroque architecture in Parma, known for its distinctive facade.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's important to note that the Oratorio is a place of historical and artistic significance, so maintaining a respectful demeanor is advised. Ensure children understand the importance of not touching the delicate floral installations. The 'donation' policy might also be a consideration for families managing their budget.
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Beyond the exhibition, appreciating the Oratorio's Baroque architecture provides a deeper cultural immersion. Its history, though partly steeped in tradition, adds layers to the visit. Checking the local event calendar for other potential exhibitions or cultural happenings is highly recommended.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles to capture the scale and intimacy of the installation. The ethereal atmosphere lends itself well to soft, moody shots. Remember to be mindful of other visitors and any on-site photography guidelines.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Florilegium: An Immersive Floral Experience
Visitors often describe the experience as deeply emotional and visually stunning, with many sharing their awe at the sheer scale and beauty of the installation. The way the light filters through the delicate petals and the subtle scent of dried flowers contribute to a unique sensory experience. It's a departure from traditional church visits, offering a contemporary art encounter within a historic setting.
While the exhibition is a major attraction, it's crucial to remember that it's often temporary or requires checking specific event schedules. The 'donation' aspect, as noted in reviews, can be a point of contention, so being informed beforehand is key to managing expectations.
A Glimpse into Parma's Baroque Heritage
The exterior facade is noted for its distinctive beauty, a characteristic feature of Parma's Baroque architectural landscape. Its location on a quiet side street adds to its charm, making it a delightful discovery for those exploring the city. Even when not hosting an exhibition, the building's architectural merit makes it worth seeking out.
Understanding its history as a former church, now primarily used for cultural events, provides context for its unique role in Parma's cultural scene. It represents a blend of historical preservation and contemporary artistic expression, offering a multifaceted experience for visitors.




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