March 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 & 29: CAMELLIA FESTIVAL 2026 (ANTICHE CAMELIE DELLA LUCCHESIA). Pieve and San Andrea di Compito (Lucca). Open 10 am – 6 pm Saturday and Sunday; 10 -12 noon and 2:30 -5 pm on weekdays. Admission: €10 with free admission for disabled, youth under 18 and journalists and €2 to visit the noble residence, Villa Orsi in Pieve di Compito. Reservations for the villa can be made at info@allecamelie.it. The villages are closed to traffic, but for those arriving by car free parking is offered at the Compitese oil mill (Via di Tiglio, 609, Pieve di Compito, Capannori). Free shuttles leave from there every 20 minutes from 9:45 am to 4:45 pm.
Spring comes to Tuscany and on a hillside in the province of Lucca gardens of camellias begin to show off their glory in vibrant shades of red and pink and creamy whites. For more than 30 years two small hamlets provide the setting for the Ancient Camellia Festival. Pieve di Compito and Sant’Andrea di Compito, situated at 1,000 meters (3,000 ft.) amidst cool, shady areas with streams offer the optimum environment for camellias.
Camellias, known as Camellia japonica, first arrived in Italy in the late 18th century. Discovered to be quite adaptable to the climate, the flowering plant with spectacular blooms became very fashionable in the prestigious villas of Lucca. In 2005, aided by a delegation from Japan, the International Camellia Society planted the first camellias on the terraced slopes of Monte Serra, which proved to be an especially suitable microclimate for the plants. Today the park has grown to 7,250 square meters with more than 40,000 plants.
The most visited camellia gardens in Europe, the festival explores everything about the plants from showcasing rare varieties to their history and good cultivation practices. A related species Camellia sinensis, which originated in China, is what we know as the tea plant; in addition to beautiful blossoms, camellias are the source of a beverage loved the world over. Italy’s only tea plantation, Antica Chiusa Borrini, covers an area and guests can enjoy the tea and purchase some to take home.
Throughout March, visitors are invited each weekend to appreciate the remarkable flowering plants showcased within their verdant natural surroundings, situated around the historic medieval borgo (hamlet). The open days, include medieval parades, exhibits, children’s theatre, music, Chinese tea ceremonies, organized hiking tours and free guided tours led by botanical guides throughout the day. A particular highlight, a trail up a gentle slope offers restful areas and a wide variety of flowers dedicated to various musicians.
Adopt a Camellia, an initiative encourages camellia lovers to sponsor a plant, often a rare variety. For €100 a plaque stating the donor’s name, variety and particular characteristics will be placed in front of the plant.
When hunger strikes the Compitese Cultural Center offers a daily six-course menu based on local specialties. For smaller appetites, snack bars offer sandwiches and lighter fare. (Rita Kungel)
For complete information and schedule of activities, visit the festival website: www.camelielucchesia.it
