FAQ About Pizza
What was pizza first called?
The pizza, as we know it today, originated in Naples, Italy. However, in its early form, it was not specifically called "pizza." The term "pizza" itself is derived from the word "pizzaiola," which refers to the pizza makers or pizzaiolos who prepared and sold the dish in Naples.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the precursor to modern pizza was a simple street food made with a thin flatbread crust topped with ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, oil, and sometimes cheese. This early version of pizza was popular among the working-class population in Naples.
During this time, the dish was known by different names based on its ingredients and the location. For example, "pizza marinara" referred to a pizza topped with tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and oil, while "pizza Margherita" was named after Queen Margherita of Italy and featured tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, and oil to represent the colors of the Italian flag.
It wasn't until later, as pizza gained popularity and spread beyond Naples, that it became commonly known as "pizza" in Italy and eventually around the world. The term "pizza" became widely used to refer to this particular type of dish with a thin crust and various toppings, evolving into the beloved food we enjoy today.
