In a fascinating archaeological find, researchers have uncovered a remarkable fresco in an ancient Pompeiian house, featuring a still-life painting that bears a striking resemblance to a modern-day pizza. However, experts are quick to point out that it cannot be a pizza, as tomatoes and mozzarella cheese were not yet part of the culinary scene during that era.
The painting, discovered on the atrium wall, showcases a flatbread adorned with various toppings. On a silver tray beside the bread, a goblet of wine is elegantly placed. The toppings on the bread are identified as fruits, including a pomegranate and possibly a date. The bread itself is seasoned with spices or potentially pesto, while dried fruits, yellow strawberry trees, dates, and pomegranates surround it.
Pompeii, situated just outside Naples, a region renowned for its pizza-making tradition, was designated a World Heritage Site in 2017, recognizing the significance of the Neapolitan pizza maker’s traditional art.
The ancient city of Pompeii was tragically destroyed and buried in ash during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. The volcanic ash served as a preservative, leaving behind remarkably preserved structures and even the remains of its inhabitants. Excavations of the site commenced in 1748, and the house containing the still-life fresco was partially excavated in 1888 and 1891, with recent work recommencing in January.
Gennaro Sangiuliano, the culture minister, expressed his astonishment at Pompeii’s perpetual ability to amaze, stating, “It is a casket that always reveals new treasures.” The fresco depicting food, known as xenia in ancient times, represents the tradition of offering gifts reflecting hospitality to household guests, a practice dating back to the Hellenistic period. Pompeii and other Vesuvian cities have yielded hundreds of such representations.
Gabriel Zuchtriegel, the director of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, commented on the fresco’s significance, stating, “In addition to the precise identification of the foods represented, we find in this fresco some themes of the Hellenistic tradition, later elaborated by authors of the Roman imperial era.” Zuchtriegel referred to notable Roman writers such as Virgil, Martial, and Philostratus, who explored similar themes in their works.
Zuchtriegel also drew a thought-provoking parallel, stating, “How can we fail to think, in this regard, of pizza, also born as a ‘poor’ dish in southern Italy, which has now conquered the world and is also served in starred restaurants.” This connection highlights the evolution of culinary traditions and the enduring influence of ancient cultures on modern gastronomy.
The discovery of this fresco provides another glimpse into the rich history of Pompeii and offers a tantalizing reflection of the ancient culinary practices and traditions that continue to captivate researchers and visitors alike.