Boston Hidden Gems: North End “Translators”

Boston's North End (a.k.a. "Little Italy") is known for its vibrant immigrant past. Dozens of nationalities passed through the North End in their journey to permanently settle in America.

Many immigrants didn't speak English and many more couldn't read. However, your money was just as good regardless if you spoke English or not. Businesses in the North End opted to display what they were selling in more direct visual terms.

Embedded in the sidewalk of many businesses are cutlery, coins, combs, horseshoes, and more! Each object was meant to symbolize what the shop was selling without having to speak English. This practice comes from Italy, where embedded sidewalk "clues" can be found in many locations.

Come see the world's earliest "Google Translate" for yourself by heading to the red dots marked on the map in the gallery. Can you find more markers that are not on the map? Try a tasty Italian gelato at the "coins" stop seen in the picture!