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Providence's "Little Italy"

Little Italy

Buona GiornataIn the early portion of the 1900's, a wave of immigrants from Italy arrived at Providence. These immigrants settled along Spruce Street and Atwells Avenue. A place previously known for its Irish neighborhood transformed into a densely Italian populated area. By 1905, there were 18,104 Italian-born residents living in Providence; and by 1920, 42,044. Gradually the Italian population extended into all Federal Hill (know today as "Colletto" or "Little Italy".)

La Pigna

Is that a pineapple or a pine cone? - Many people are puzzled by the figure under the main entrance underpass at "Providence's Little Italy". In fact, hanging from the underpass is "La Pigna", an Italian symbol for hospitality and for sharing of abundance.

Businesses at Atwells Avenue resembled the "Old Country. They were conducted on the street level spaces and the upper levels were used as residencies (much like in Italy). That area became a center of business and culture for the new Italian population.

Today, Federal Hill is known as a hot spot for its dinning and upbeat rhythm. One can dine in an authentic Italian restaurant as well as shop for Italian goods directly imported from the "Old Country". Many people have compared Federal Hill with SoHo in New York for its cultural mixture and activities.

A good time to visit Providence's "Little Italy" is in March 19 when the feast of St. Joseph is celebrated. At this time you will find the famous "Federal Hill Zeppole" (similar to the Zeppole made in Sorrento).