Denver’s Little Italy: Preserving North Denver’s Italian History
Denver Wine Radio
Thursday, October 1, 2026 - 23 minutes
Denver once had a thriving Little Italy in the heart of North Denver. Italian-owned bakeries, markets, restaurants, social clubs and churches helped define the neighborhood, but as Denver has changed, much of that history has slowly disappeared.
In this episode, Paul sits down with Jenna Peccia, Social Media Chair for the Little Italy Historic District, to talk about an effort to preserve and recognize that history through a proposed thematic historic district.
Jenna grew up near 36th and Vallejo and shares memories of growing up around Mount Carmel Church and the Italian businesses that once dotted the neighborhood. She also explains how the proposed historic district would work, why more than 50 historically significant properties have already been identified, and what designation could mean for property owners.
They also talk about Gaetano’s, Lechuga’s, Potenza Lodge, Mount Carmel Church and other places that help tell the story of Denver’s Italian community and why capturing the stories of longtime North Denver families is just as important as preserving the buildings.
In this episode:
Where Denver’s Little Italy was located
Growing up Italian in North Denver
The businesses and gathering places that shaped the neighborhood
What a thematic historic district is
More than 50 potentially historic properties already identified
Development, demolition and the changing character of North Denver
What historic designation means for property owners
How old photographs, family stories and neighborhood memories can help
The hope of keeping Denver’s Italian heritage alive for future generations
Learn more about the proposed Little Italy Historic District and how you can get involved at LittleItalyofDenver.com.
