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The History of Pizza

In one of its many forms, pizza has been a basic part of the Italian diet since the Stone Age. Italian pizza evolved from two basic concepts by two cultures. After cooking, it was seasoned with a variety of different toppings and used instead of plates and utensils to sop up broth or gravies. This notion of a flavored bread as a side dish evolved into what is known as focaccia in Italy.

Pizza had achieved a local popularity amongst visitors to Naples who would venture into the poorer sections to taste this peasant dish made by men called Pizzaioli.

The first pizzeria in Naples opened in 1830 and pizza was only thought of as a curiosity by those from out of town.

The first pizza delivery was in 1889 by Raffaele Esposito owner of the famous pizzeria Pietro il Pizzaiolo (Naples). The recipients were King Umberto I and Queen Margherita of Savoy who were residing with the queen's family in Capodimonte Park. Refusing to go to the likes of a pizzeria, the queen ordered in, being anxious to try this food she had heard so much about. Enough ingredients were brought to make three kinds of pizza and after sampling all three, Queen Margherita selected as her favorite the pizza made with tomatoes, mozzarella and fresh basil. Obviously patriotism met good taste head-on, the pizza colors red white and green being the same as the Italian flag. Nevertheless, pizza Margherita (as this combination became known) is to this day one of the most popular pizzas sold.