The History of Neapolitan Pizza: A Journey Through Italian Culinary Heritage

It is impossible to imagine the culinary world without the tantalizing aromas, rich flavors, and satisfying textures of Neapolitan pizza, a dish that has captivated the hearts and taste buds of both foodies and casual diners from every corner of the globe. As creators of hand-crafted, artisan, stone oven-baked, authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, La Ruota is inspired by the deep historical roots and powerful cultural legacy of this Italian culinary treasure, carrying on a tradition that dates back centuries and continues to thrive in the 21st century.

In this blog, we invite you to embark on a fascinating journey through the storied history of Neapolitan pizza, as we explore the humble origins, key milestones, and enduring cultural significance of this iconic dish. We will delve into the evolution of this ancient Italian creation, tracing its origins from the most basic of flatbreads to the magnificent culinary masterpiece it is today, all while capturing the essence of the spirit, innovation, and passion that drive Italy's beloved pizzaiolos.

As we venture further into the rich tapestry of Neapolitan pizza's history, we will discover the innovations and influences that have shaped its development, revealing the indelible mark it has left on Italian and global cuisine alike. Join us as we celebrate the storied past and vibrant future of Neapolitan pizza, honoring the artisans, innovators, and dedicated enthusiasts who have made it an enduring symbol of Italian culinary heritage and a delicious treat cherished by people of all ages and cultures worldwide. 

Buon viaggio, and may the inspiring legacy of Neapolitan pizza continue to enthrall our senses and ignite our collective passion for the art of pizza making.

1. The Early Origins: Unravelling the Predecessors of Neapolitan Pizza

Take a step back in time and discover the early beginnings of flatbreads that lay the foundation for the birth of Neapolitan pizza as we know it today.

• Ancient Civilizations: Historical evidence suggests that various forms of flatbreads were consumed among ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Etruscans, possibly making them the earliest ancestors of Neapolitan pizza.

 

• Focaccia: The Romans were known to bake a simple flatbread called 'panis focacius', which could be considered the primitive cousin of pizza, as it was often topped with olive oil, herbs, and sometimes cheese.

2. The Birth of the Modern Pizza: Tracing Neapolitan Pizza's Roots

Witness the transformation of flatbreads into the delectable dish we now cherish, as we unravel the events and influences that led to the creation of Neapolitan pizza.

• Naples in the 16th Century: The first documented use of the word 'pizza' can be traced back to the Italian city of Naples in 1570, where flatbreads topped with various ingredients were commonly consumed by the city's working-class population.

 

• The Introduction of Tomatoes: Tomatoes, brought back to Europe from the Americas in the 16th century, were initially considered poisonous; however, as they became more widely accepted and cultivated in Naples, the humble tomato found its rightful place atop Neapolitan pizzas, giving birth to the signature tomato sauce that defines this iconic dish.

3. Neapolitan Pizza's Royal Connection: The Famed Margherita Pizza

Discover the tale of how a legendary pizza, named after a queen, played a critical role in cementing Neapolitan pizza's cultural legacy and culinary prominence.

• Queen Margherita of Savoy: In 1889, during a visit to Naples, Queen Margherita of Savoy requested a sampling of local food, leading pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito to prepare three different types of pizza for the queen's consideration.

 

• A Custom Creation: Out of the three pizzas presented, Queen Margherita favored a pizza featuring the colors of the Italian flag red (tomatoes), white (mozzarella), and green (basil) and thus, the Margherita pizza was born, quickly becoming one of the most emblematic and beloved variations of Neapolitan pizza.

4. The Global Impact: Neapolitan Pizza's Worldwide Influence and Legacy

Celebrate Neapolitan pizza's enduring impact on international cuisine, as we explore its journey from the bustling streets of Naples to the global stage.

• Italian Immigration: The massive wave of Italian emigration between the late 19th and early 20th centuries played a significant role in introducing Neapolitan pizza to various regions around the world, including North and South America, Europe, and Australia.

 

• Adaptation and Innovation: As Neapolitan pizza gained popularity across the globe, the dish began to metamorphose, leading to the creation of myriad regional and cultural variations, from New York-style pizza to the iconic Canadian invention, Hawaiian pizza.

 

• Recognition and Preservation: In 2009, Neapolitan pizza received the esteemed TSG (Traditional Speciality Guaranteed) classification from the European Union, which aims to protect and promote traditional food products, cementing Neapolitan pizza's historic and cultural importance.

Celebrating the Rich History and Inspired Future of Neapolitan Pizza

As we reflect on the captivating history of Neapolitan pizza, we are reminded of the spirit of innovation, passion, and dedication that has shaped this iconic dish over the centuries, transforming it from a simple flatbread to a global culinary phenomenon. By honoring the roots of this delectable creation and embracing its continued evolution, we celebrate the essence of Italian culinary heritage and contribute to the enduring legacy of Neapolitan pizza. Buon appetito, and may the time-honoured art of Neapolitan pizza making continue to captivate our senses and inspire our culinary passions for generations to come.

At La Ruota, we are proud to carry on the storied tradition of hand-crafted, artisan, stone oven-baked, authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas  made with only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. From the perfectly charred crust to the bubbling melted cheese and savory toppings, each pizza is a work of art that reflects our commitment to excellence and our love for this timeless dish. So whether enjoyed in a cozy pizzeria with friends and family or savored at home with a glass of wine, each bite of our pizza is a journey into the heart and soul of Italy. Browse our selection of pizzas today and experience the magic of Neapolitan pizza for yourself!