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If the aroma of pasta sauce and espresso perfumes the air, tifosi red blazes from every corner, and tomato plants dominate backyards, chances are you’re in Little Italy.
Just north of downtown, it’s where Montréal’s first Italian immigrants made a home for themselves in the 19th century. Today, Little Italy is a vibrant neighbourhood with a bustling gourmet scene, stylish boutiques and many cultural treasures.
It's along Saint-Laurent Boulevard, the side streets, and stopping at the Jean-Talon market that you really feel like in Italy. How to resist the mouth-watering colours and smells of the trattorias, caffes, groceries and pastries? Little Italy is also a haven for fashionistas, with designer boutiques showing that typical Italian refinement.
Food and shopping aside, Little Italy offers beautiful churches and impressive architecture. The inspiring Church of the Madonna della Defesa showcases Italian Renaissance architecture, while the Casa d’Italia community cultural centre (505, Jean-Talon Street East) is a brilliant example of 1930s Art Deco style.
In summer, the excitement is at its height! Here soccer and car racing are a way of life. Dante Street is the heart and soul, with Dante Park, a popular spot for bocce and community get-togethers. On the occasion of the Grand Prix, join sport cars fans while the whole neighbourhood sets the table to party. On weekends, come dance tango at Little Italy Park, or watch outdoor Italian film screenings at Dante Park.
An audio guide (In French) relates histories and anecdotes of this colourful neighbourhood driven by soccer, family and a passion for life.
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