The history of Pizza

Pizza, with its delectable combination of a crisp crust, savoury sauce, melted cheese, and various toppings, is a beloved global icon of comfort food. However, the history of pizza is a story that spans centuries and continents, reflecting the evolution of culinary traditions and the fusion of diverse cultures.

The origins of pizza can be traced back to ancient civilisations. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all had their own variations of flatbreads topped with various ingredients. These early versions of pizza laid the foundation for what would become the modern pizza we know today.

The word pizza itself has its roots in Italy. In Naples, during the late 18th century, the term ‘pizzaiolo’ was used to describe the people who made and sold these early pizzas. These were simple, rustic creations, often consisting of flatbreads topped with tomatoes and cheese. Tomatoes, a New World crop, had only recently been introduced to Europe but quickly became a staple in Italian cuisine.

The Margherita pizza, a classic Neapolitan creation, has a particularly interesting history. It is said to have been named after Queen Margherita of Savoy when she visited Naples in 1889. Legend has it that the pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito created a pizza with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil to represent the colors of the Italian flag – red, white, and green – in honour of the queen.

Pizza gained popularity among the working-class people of Naples and soon spread beyond the city’s borders. By the late 19th century, pizzerias were opening in other Italian cities and even in the United States, thanks to Italian immigrants.

One of the pioneers of pizza in the United States was Gennaro Lombardi, who opened the first licensed pizzeria in America in 1905 in New York City. Lombardi’s Pizza is still in operation today, serving classic coal-fired brick-oven pizzas.

The mid-20th century saw the rise of pizza chains, with names like Domino’s, Pizza Hut, and Little Caesars becoming household names. These chains brought pizza to the masses.

In recent years, the artisanal pizza movement has gained momentum, focusing on high-quality ingredients, traditional methods, and wood-fired or brick ovens to create exceptional pizzas. This trend has elevated the status of pizza, positioning it as a gourmet dining option.

Pizza has transcended cultural and culinary boundaries, becoming a universal symbol of shared meals and good times. Whether enjoyed in a pizzeria in New York City, a traditional trattoria in Naples, or a local shop in Tokyo, pizza remains a beloved and versatile dish that continues to bring people together, one delicious slice at a time.