The vibrant North End of Boston, Massachusetts is known as the city's oldest residential community, with a history and culture that has shaped its identity for centuries. First colonized in the 1630s, the neighborhood is only 0.36 square miles (0.93 km2) but it boasts more than one hundred establishments and many popular attractions. It was a fashionable area for wealthy families to live in during the 18th century until the 19th century when immigrants from Italy and Ireland began to move in and create their own unique culture. This led to further modernization as the North End Park and Beach, Copp’s Hill Terrace, the home for Italian Children, and other institutions were built. The Central Artery created a wall between the North End and downtown Boston in 1950, yet the neighborhood still remained active with various businesses and activities. Now, the North End stands as an iconic example of resilience and adaptation in the face of changing demographics and economics.