St. Anthony of Padua Church, Wilmington

Saint Anthony of Padua Church in Wilmington is a landmark of Italian-American heritage and Catholic tradition. Established in 1924 to serve the city’s growing Italian immigrant community in the Little Italy neighborhood, the church was constructed over seven years by parishioners, many of them skilled artisans and laborers. Its Romanesque Revival design, inspired by the Basilica di San Zeno in Verona, reflects the founders’ deep ties to their homeland. Construction was led by Ernesto DiSabatino, who later founded the EDiS Company and received papal honors for his efforts.

The church complex includes Saint Anthony’s School and Padua Academy, reinforcing its longstanding commitment to education and faith formation. A belfry tower was added in 1938, followed by the installation of stained glass windows in 1940, completing the aesthetic vision of the sanctuary. In 1984, the church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a recognition of both its architectural merit and historical significance within the local community.

Operated by the Oblates of Saint Francis de Sales and under the Diocese of Wilmington, Saint Anthony's remains an active parish with a strong spiritual and cultural presence. Beyond offering the sacraments and spiritual ministries, the church supports community involvement through longstanding organizations like the Blessed Virgin Mary Sodality and its parish school, which has educated generations of local children.

Perhaps most widely known is its annual Italian Festival, held every June to celebrate the Feast of Saint Anthony. The week-long event features outdoor cafés, live entertainment, and traditional foods, drawing thousands of visitors. Now one of the largest Italian festivals in the country, it exemplifies the parish’s enduring role as both a place of worship and a cultural cornerstone in Wilmington.