Casa Belvedere – Italian

Casa Belvedere front view — The front view of Casa Belvedere depicting its Romanesque architecture.

One of the most impressive institutions in Staten Island that captures the rich culture of Italy is Casa Belvedere. Located at 79 Howard Avenue in Grymes Hill, Casa Belvedere sits on nearly three acres of land and overlooks the Verrazano Narrows Bridge. Its classic architecture is Romanesque in that it sports columns with scroll like accents, dome shaped windows with delicate panes overlooking small balconies. Staten Island residents, Gina and Luciano Rammairone purchased the mansion in 2008 in the hopes to restore it to its original beauty, while converting it to an arts and cultural center for the community. Today it stands proudly open to the public for all to enjoy!

Together with the Cultural Foundation, Casa Belvedere seeks to preserve, promote, and celebrate the rich Italian heritage by encouraging and appreciation of the Italian language, arts, literature, history, fashion, cuisine and commerce through educational programs, exhibits, and events. Some of the opportunities offered at this stimulating establishment are cooking classes for ages 8 and up, “Parliamo Italiano” –language program for toddlers, children, teens and adults, Italian book presentations, excerpt reading from plays performed by Italian-American actors, orchestral music concert in honor of Giuseppe Verdi (a famous Italian composer), special cooking demos with Italian chefs, beautiful DVD presentation with festive Italian music, photographs and videos from Carnevale( an Italian feast celebration in Italy), and many other cultural experiences.

Casa Belvedere is a multi-cultural institution because it welcomes all who have an interest in experiencing the Italian culture. It offers a wide variety of Italian interactive activities that allows one to appreciate its splendor. With the support of the community, this fine establishment has flourished splendidly, and, as more people have become aware, it will continue to grow in popularity. There is no doubt that Staten Island is a beautiful melting pot of captivating cultures. We hope that Casa Belvedere will find a place in your heart as it has most certainly found a place in ours.