Federal Hill
Federal Hill is a residential neighborhood in Providence known for its small shops, cafes, and restaurants. The main street, Atwells Avenue, runs through the area with brick buildings and cobblestone, while DePasquale Square offers a fountain and outdoor seating.
The neighborhood was once called Nocabulabet, a name from Native American languages, before it received its current name during a Fourth of July celebration. Starting in the late 19th century, Italian immigrants settled here and worked in factories and small businesses.
The neighborhood's nickname, Little Italy, reflects the Italian families who have lived here for generations. Restaurants and bakeries along Atwells Avenue show this tradition through freshly prepared dishes and sweet pastries.
The area is easy to explore on foot, especially along Atwells Avenue where most restaurants and shops are located. During warm weather in summer, outdoor concerts and festivals often take place, particularly at DePasquale Square.
Every March 19th, the Feast of Saint Joseph takes place, when residents share zeppole, a fried pastry dusted with powdered sugar. The Columbus Theatre, an old cinema, still shows films and occasionally hosts concerts.
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