Early pizza painting - 17th July 2023

Archaeologists in Pompeii have discovered a painting of a kind of pizza. The painting is of a flat bread which is called focaccia. It’s covered with fruits like dates, pomegranates and various spices.

This early pizza didn't have tomatoes and mozzarella, which are common on modern pizzas. Tomatoes were unknown in Europe in the time of ancient Rome. Mozzarella cheese wasn’t invented until over a hundred years later. Roman meals usually included grains, beans, bread, fish, meat, eggs, cheeses and wine.

The painting was found in good condition. This was because of a volcano which erupted near Pompeii in 79 AD. A cloud of gas and ash fell on Pompeii, which killed many people. The ash saved household items and decorations from the usual damage over time.

Today, Pompeii provides archaeologists and tourists with important information about life in ancient Rome. The Italian government’s working to protect the historical site of Pompeii. It’s a valuable record of ancient life and culture.

The pizza painting was found only 25 kilometres away from Naples. This is where the modern pizza was invented. Pizza started here as a simple dish which has now become popular worldwide. The pizza-making method that’s used in Naples is protected by UNESCO.