The History of Pizza (Encore)

Proto-Pizzas

The history of pizza is complex, with its roots in various ancient cultures that created flatbreads with toppings. Gary Arndt mentions Persian soldiers in the 6th century BC who cooked bread with cheese and dates on their shields, and Greeks who made flatbreads with olive oil, herbs, and cheese 1. These early dishes, termed proto-pizzas, were found in many cultures, including China and India. However, the modern pizza we recognize today originated in Italy.

   

First 'Pizza'

The term 'pizza' first appeared in a bookkeeping record from Gaeta, Italy, in 997 AD, but its exact definition at the time remains unclear. Gary explains that the word's origins are ambiguous, possibly deriving from Byzantine Greek, Italian, or Lombardic dialects 1. Despite these uncertainties, the modern pizza as we know it began to take shape in Naples in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

   

Humbleness in Naples

In Naples, pizza started as a humble street food for the poor, known as lazzaroni. These individuals often lacked cooking facilities and relied on street vendors for meals. Gary notes that by the late 18th century, tomatoes had become a common topping due to their affordability 2. By 1807, Naples had 54 registered pizzerias, and pizza was a staple for the city's working class.