Archive · 27 Jul 2026
Sulmona's Candy Bouquets: A Sweet Tradition
In Sulmona, Italy, people make beautiful bouquets out of candy called confetti.
These candies are made by coating almonds in layers of sugar syrup using special copper pans.
The tradition started a long time ago, around 1492–93, and was used by nuns for religious celebrations and gifts.
Even today, these candy bouquets are a big part of Italian celebrations.
Confetti are made by coating almonds in sugar syrup using rotating copper pans called bassine.
The tradition of making confetti in Sulmona dates back to 1492–93.
Nuns at the Monastery of Santa Chiara used confetti in religious celebrations and as gifts.
Confetti are tied into decorative arrangements like flowers and rosaries.
Sulmona’s confetti are still widely used in Italian celebrations today.
- Who
- The nuns at the Monastery of Santa Chiara and the people of Sulmona.
- What
- The production of candy bouquets made from confetti.
- When
- The tradition dates back to 1492–93.
- Where
- In Sulmona, Italy.
- Why
- To create decorative arrangements for religious celebrations and gifts.
Traditionalists
Modernists
Preservation of Tradition
Traditionalists
The traditional method of making confetti should be preserved to maintain cultural heritage.
Modernists
Modern techniques can streamline production while still honoring the tradition.
- Origin of Confetti
- The name confetti comes from the Latin confectum, meaning 'prepared' or 'wrapped'.
- Production Process
- Whole almonds are coated with sugar syrup in rotating copper pans called bassine.
- Historical Significance
- The earliest record of confetti production in Sulmona dates to 1492–93.
- Religious Connection
- Nuns at the Monastery of Santa Chiara used confetti in religious celebrations and gifts.
- Modern Use
- Sulmona’s confetti are still used in Italian celebrations.