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Keep our heritage alive.

Australian family portrait, circa 1920s, Alice, Jack, Fred, Mary

Construction of Centre Street Bridge - 1911

Canadian Pacific laborers with shovels, wheelbarrow, and coal

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Welcome to Our Calgary Italian Historical Website!

As President of the Calgary Italian Cultural Centre, I'm proud to share this celebration of our Italian heritage with you.

I was raised in Calgary's Italian community, surrounded by traditions, stories, festivals, and the unforgettable aroma of home-cooked meals. This website is a tribute to the generations who came before us and the culture they built with heart and hard work.

It's a growing project, and we look forward to adding more stories, photos and memories. I invite you to explore and help us keep our legacy alive.

Luigi Audia

President, Calgary Italian Cultural Centre

Did You Know?

1939 – Clothesline robberies

In 1939, a series of clothesline robberies were reported in Calgary. Joseph Buccini of 303–4 Street NE and his neighbour Riccardo Santipinto of 305–4 Street NE both had clothing stolen, valued at $2 and $5. Police increased patrols in back lanes.

1941 – A purse returned

In 1941, Mrs. Martha Cioni of 110 8A Street NE lost her purse downtown. It was later found and turned over to police, who returned it with $14 still inside. She was extremely grateful to have it safely returned.

1917 – Community fundraising

In 1917, a patriotic meeting led by Antonio Milano of the Italian Consulate raised funds for families displaced by the German invasion. The Italian community in Calgary donated more than $300 to support those affected.

1914–1932 – Italian Consulate

From 1914 to 1932, Calgary was home to an Italian Consulate led by Antonio Milano. It was located at 201 3 Street NE and served as a central point for the Italian community during that period.

1928 – Entertainment for children

In 1928, the Caboto Loggia organized an afternoon of entertainment for children at Father Lacombe Home. The event included candy, ice cream, and live music performed by Pompillio’s Italian Boys Band.

1920 – Community picnic

In 1920, the Giovanni Caboto Loggia invited all Italians in Calgary to gather for a picnic at Shouldice Park. The event brought the community together for a day of food, connection, and celebration.

1948 – Grey Cup train performance

In 1948, Bill Galiardi entertained passengers on the Grey Cup train to Toronto. As the Calgary Stampeders traveled to the championship, he played accordion music for the team and supporters onboard.

Seven people, four men and three women, standing outdoors

The Santopinto Family

Riccardo Santopinto arrived at Ellis Island on April 14, 1910, aboard the San Giovanni that sailed from Naples. He was 28 years old, born in Antrodoco, Aquila. Two years later, Gisa Cioni, also from Antrodoco, arrived on the ship Moltke. Though they had lived on the same street in Italy, they met and married in Calgary on July 22, 1912.

Together they raised five children, Jean, Frank, Mageste, Connie, and Nino, in the heart of Calgary's early Italian community, living just blocks from the site of today's Calgary Italian Cultural Centre. Riccardo worked at Riverside Iron Works; Gisa was a devoted homemaker, acclaimed cook, and tireless community volunteer.

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