A unique fresco resembling a pizza has been discovered among the ancient ruins of Pompeii. The painting, dating back 2,000 years, was found during excavations in the Regio IX area of Pompeii's archaeological park, near Naples, The Guardian reports.
It depicts a round focaccia bread on a silver tray, accompanied by fruits such as pomegranate and possibly a date. Interestingly, the fresco also features what appears to be a pineapple, which is puzzling considering the fruit was not known in Europe until much later. Experts believe the bread was seasoned with spices or a herb cheese spread called moretum, commonly consumed by the ancient Romans.
The still life is believed to represent the Greek hospitality tradition of xenia, showcasing the gifts offered to guests. Such frescoes were common in Pompeii and Herculaneum before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, but the inclusion of focaccia in this artwork is unusual.
Gabriel Zuchtriegel, the director of Pompeii archaeological park, commented on the contrast depicted in the fresco, highlighting the juxtaposition of a simple meal and the luxury of silver trays, reflecting the refinement of art and literature. He drew a connection to pizza, which originated as a humble dish in southern Italy but has now become popular worldwide, even being served in upscale restaurants.
Gino Sorbillo, the owner of a renowned pizzeria in Naples, agrees that the fresco portrays a form of ancient pizza, made with basic ingredients like grains, water, salt, and possibly beer as a leavening agent. Sorbillo notes that toppings could have included vegetables or the catch of the day, suggesting that ancient pizza had a range of variations. However, he clarifies that fruit as a pizza topping is more common in sweet pizzas, rather than savory ones.
The discovery of the fresco is just one of the many treasures that Pompeii continues to reveal. The site, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and rediscovered in the 16th century, has been the subject of ongoing excavations. In the Regio IX district, where the fresco was found, other significant findings include the skeletal remains of victims who sought shelter in a bakery during the eruption.
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