When visiting Federal Hill, the Italian section of Providence, you will most likely spend some time around DePasquale Square. If Garibaldi Park and the Gateway Arch are the welcoming arms of Federal Hill, DePasquale Square is its beating heart.
The quatrefoil fountain and the wide plaza are part of the Federal Hill revitalization effort. Back in the day, however, tens of thousands of immigrant families packed into these narrow streets and triple-deckers.
The Cappelli Block (a multi-use commercial and residential building) was completed in 1909 by Antonio Cappelli, one of the earliest Italian arrivals on the Hill, when Irish immigrants dominated the avenue. Along these streets, too, were the famous pushcarts, selling every variety of fruit and vegetable.
Today, it's a lively plaza that reminds you of a place in sunny Italy...the colors, the al fresco dining, the architecture of the fountain and surrounding buildings, all make this one of the cutest spots in Providence.
On weekends, during the summer you will likely see live performers chanting old songs either as solo performers or groups. Also during the summer, many festivals take place around this square, attracting thousands.... read more