Ancient Pompeii pizza - 17th July 2023

A painting of an early form of Italy's most famous dish, pizza, has been uncovered by archaeologists in Pompeii. The artwork includes a flat focaccia bread, which is topped with ingredients like dates, pomegranates and a variety of spices.

However, two key ingredients which are found in modern pizza are missing. These are tomatoes and mozzarella cheese. During the period of ancient Rome, these were unknown. Tomatoes hadn’t arrived in Europe from the New World. Mozzarella hadn’t been invented yet. Its earliest form was created around a hundred years later.

Roman meals typically included grains, beans, bread, fish, meat, eggs, and hard and soft cheeses, along with wine. The pizza painting contains both luxurious dishes on silver plates and simple, common food. The artwork symbolises a balance between wealth and simple living. The director of Pompeii's archaeological park, Gabriel Zuchtriegel, compared this to the history of pizza. This dish, which has simple origins in southern Italy, has now gained global recognition.

The painting was well-preserved due to the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The gas and ash cloud from Vesuvius buried Pompeii. This preserved the position of people’s bodies and artistic decorations and everyday household items.

Since Pompeii’s discovery nearly 500 years ago, the city’s provided valuable insights into ancient Rome’s life and culture. Italian authorities have stressed the importance of safeguarding this historical site.

The painting of the flatbread pizza’s located less than 25 kilometres from Naples. This city’s authentic method for making Italian pizza is protected by UNESCO.