Founded in 1977, the Italian Cultural Centre’s mission is “to promote Italian language, culture and heritage and to share these with other communities”. Created by volunteers, the Centre serves as a vital reference and focal point for the Lower Mainland’s Italian Canadian Community. The Italian Cultural Centre’s (il Centro) programs and activities include: an Italian language school, a heritage museum and art gallery, a library and resource Centre, performing arts presentations, film screenings, literary events, public lecture series, banquet and catering services, wine tastings, cooking classes, and other culinary events.
Il Centro has operated for 40 years and presents a broad spectrum of cultural programming, events and activities on an annual basis. In addition, to our cultural program and activities, Il Centro also houses 30 member associations (representing Italian regions, activities, and cities), a resident Montessori School (Westside Montessori Academy, grades: K to 7), a tenant restaurant (La Piazza Dario’s Ristorante Italiano), and has developed two separate housing complexes; Casa Serena, a seniors housing complex, and Villa Carital an assisted living centre for seniors.