Pizza is a beloved food that has a long and fascinating history. Its origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations in the Mediterranean, where flatbreads topped with herbs, oils, and sometimes cheese were popular. In fact, the word “pizza” itself is derived from the Latin word “pinsa,” which comes from “pinsere” which means something along the lines of “stretching”. However, the pizza that we know and love today – with its distinct crust, tomato sauce, and cheese – has a more specific and recent history.
Pizza’s Origin
The first recorded instance of modern pizza can be traced back to the late 18th century in Naples, Italy. It was in this city that pizza truly evolved into the dish that it is today.
At this time, in the late 18th century, pizza was considered a food for the poor, as it was made with inexpensive ingredients like tomatoes, cheese, and garlic, and was sold by street vendors. It was also commonly served to workers at the city’s many docks and marketplaces.
One of the key developments in the history of pizza was the addition of tomatoes to the topping. Tomatoes were introduced to Europe in the 16th century, but it wasn’t until the late 18th century that they were used on pizza. Prior to this, pizza was typically topped with cheese and other ingredients like anchovies, olives, and garlic. The addition of tomatoes brought a new level of flavor and nutrition to the dish, and it quickly gained popularity in Naples.
The Modern Pizza
The development of modern pizza can be attributed to a man named Raffaele Esposito. In 1889, Esposito was asked to create a special dish for the visit of King Umberto I and Queen Margherita of Savoy to Naples. Esposito decided to create a pizza that was inspired by the colors of the Italian flag: red (tomatoes), white (mozzarella cheese), and green (basil). This pizza, known as the “Margherita,” was an instant hit and is still one of the most popular types of pizza today.
The Margherita pizza is still one of the most popular types of pizza today and is often seen as a classic representation of traditional Italian pizza.
As pizza gained popularity in Naples, it began to spread to other parts of Italy and beyond. In the early 20th century, Italian immigrants brought pizza to the United States, where it quickly became a popular food. In the 1950s, pizza really took off in the United States, thanks in part to the proliferation of pizza chains and the creation of the frozen pizza industry.
Today, pizza is enjoyed all over the world and is considered a universal comfort food. There are countless variations of pizza, ranging from classic Margherita to more innovative creations like BBQ chicken and even sushi pizza. Pizza has even inspired its own holiday, National Pizza Day, which is celebrated on February 9th.
The history of pizza is not just about the food itself, but also the cultural and social significance it has had over the years. In Italy, pizza is often seen as a way to bring people together, whether it’s for a family dinner or a night out with friends. In the United States, pizza has become a staple of college life and a go-to choice for late-night gatherings. No matter where you are in the world, pizza is a food that brings people together and brings joy to those who eat it.
Pizza has also played a role in popular culture and has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and songs. From the classic “Two Guys, a Girl and a Pizza Place” sitcom to the iconic song “It’s Amore” by Dean Martin, pizza has cemented itself as a cultural icon.
Overall, the history of pizza is a rich and fascinating one, full of cultural significance and delicious flavor. From its humble beginnings in ancient civilizations to its current status as a global phenomenon, pizza has come a long way and will surely continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
I know for sure that I will be eating pizza until the day when I am not here anymore.
If you liked this brief history of the evolution of pizza, you may also enjoy my ode to pizza.
