On Tuesday 13th May, the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Italy was warmly welcomed to St Peter’s Italian Church in Clerkenwell, one of London’s oldest and most iconic places of worship for the Italian community. The special visit celebrated the enduring cultural and historical ties between the United Kingdom and Italy.
Members of the APPG, including MPs and peers from across the political spectrum were given a guided tour of the church, established in 1863, and learned about its pivotal role in supporting the Italian diaspora in the UK for over 160 years. The visit included a meeting with parish leaders and representatives from the local Italian community.
Father Andrea Fulco, Parish Priest of St Peter’s Italian Church, said:
'It was a pleasure to be able to welcome members of the All-Party Parliamentary Group to our beautiful Church and to share with them a brief history of St Peter’s Italian Church and its role in the Italian community in London. Although its role has changed over time it has always fostered friendship with all the local community, and even after 162 years it is still the focal point and the spiritual home of many London-Italians. It remains a central hub for religious and cultural gatherings, bringing together the Italian and English communities.'
Alberto Costa MP, Co-Chair of the APPG, said:
'It is a privilege for the APPG to visit St Peter’s Italian Church, a cornerstone of the Italian-British community in London. This historic church is not only a place of worship, but also a powerful symbol of the deep and enduring friendship between the United Kingdom and Italy.
'It has been a pleasure to learn about the Church’s rich spiritual and cultural history, as well as the many events and initiatives it leads to unite and support the Italian community in London.'
The APPG was joined at the Church by the Italian Deputy Head of Mission to the United Kingdom, Mr Riccardo Smimmo.
Mr Smimmo said:
'The Embassy of Italy in London is delighted to join the Italy All-Party Parliamentary Group in the visit to St Peter’s Italian Church, in Clerkenwell Road. It underscores the enduring ties between the United Kingdom and Italy, as well as the significant role played by the Italian community in London. The APPG’s visit highlights the importance of fostering cultural understanding and celebrating the contributions of Italians to the fabric of London life.
'The visit to St Peter’s Italian Church in Clerkenwell serves as a meaningful gesture of friendship and mutual respect between the two nations. It celebrates the church’s historical and cultural significance, reinforces the importance of community heritage, and strengthens the bonds between the British and Italian peoples.'
The APPG Italy is a cross-party group of UK Parliamentarians dedicated to fostering closer relations between the United Kingdom and Italy, promoting cultural exchange and encouraging dialogue on key policy areas.
