Piazza Imo on The Hill
Published in The Hill Visitor’s Guide & Business Directory 2026
By Abby Wojcik
In the heart of The Hill across from St. Ambrose Catholic Church, an Italianate-style piazza and public visiting space evokes the quintessential plazas found in towns and villages across Italy. Piazza Imo at 2109 Marconi Avenue was dedicated in 2019 and is the largest privately financed public project in Hill history.
At the piazza’s center, the Frisella Family Fountain, featuring triumphant horses and leaping fishes is in memory of Philip A. Frisella. Standing at 14 feet and 23 feet in diameter, it was hand-sculpted and imported from Apuan Mountains in the Carrara region of Italy.
Visitors entering the piazza are immediately welcomed by the impressive gates hand-built in St. Louis, donated by Marge and Ed Imo and designed by artist Claude Breckwalde. Flanking the entrance are two hand-carved limestone pillars from Italy honoring Msgr. Salvatore Polizzi and Louis "Little Midge" Berra. On the left main column there is a quote translated to "You are one of us,” a message of belonging to all who pass through.
This inviting local alcove also includes tournament-size chess tables donated by St. Louis Chess Club, statues of The Blessed Mother, The Holy Family and The Sacred Heart, and corner prayer gardens under peaceful shade. Saint Ambrose students come to practice chess. Families take pictures together after Sunday Mass. Its authentic Italian character and strong community support make this a true treasure on The Hill.
