Naples, Italy, is not just a bustling city, it’s the birthplace of a global phenomenon – pizza. Neapolitan pizza, with its thin crust and simple yet flavorful toppings, has become a beloved food around the world. But its history stretches back centuries, from humble beginnings to royal encounters and finally, a protected tradition.
From Flatbreads to Tomato Toppings (pre-18th century):
The story of Neapolitan pizza starts long before cheese and sauce. For centuries, Naples had a tradition of flatbreads, likely influenced by Arab settlers. In the 17th century, tomatoes arrived from the Americas. Initially considered poisonous, they weren’t incorporated into Neapolitan cuisine until later.
A Food of the People (18th century):
By the 18th century, the picture starts to look more familiar. The poor in Naples began topping their flatbreads with affordable ingredients like tomatoes, creating a filling and flavorful meal. This marked the birth of the pizza we recognize today.
A Pizza Fit for a Queen (1889):
Neapolitan pizza took a turn towards royalty in 1889. King Umberto I and Queen Margherita of Italy visited Naples. Baker Raffaele Esposito wanted to create something special for the occasion. He crafted a pizza with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, mirroring the colors of the Italian flag. This pizza, named after the Queen, became the iconic Pizza Margherita.
A Protected Tradition (present day):
Today, Neapolitan pizza is more than just a delicious food; it’s a protected tradition. The Associazione Vera Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) upholds strict guidelines for making authentic Neapolitan pizza. These rules govern everything from the flour used to the wood-fired ovens that bake the pizzas. The European Union and the United Kingdom also recognize Neapolitan pizza as a Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG) product.
The art of making Neapolitan pizza has even been inscribed on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage. This prestigious recognition highlights the importance of preserving the unique techniques and flavors that define this culinary treasure.
So, the next time you take a bite of a Neapolitan pizza, remember you’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re experiencing a rich history that has unfolded over centuries. From its humble beginnings as a food of the people to its royal connection and protected status, Neapolitan pizza is a testament to the enduring power of culinary traditions.