An image released by Pompeii Archaeological Park on June 25, 2023, might be the earliest depiction of pizza. The 2000-year-old fresco, discovered during an excavation on an ancient Pompeian house, depicts a wine cup and an object resembling the popular food.

While the management of the UNESCO World Heritage Site noted what we see resembles a pizza, they think it probably is not one. The mysterious dish is more likely to be a bread embellished with various ingredients – might be a mere presentation technique. Nevertheless, it is also possible that this dish is the ancestor of modern-day pizzas. 

Pomegranate and Dates

The round shape in the fresco has various fruits and spices on it. Although it does not include tomatoes or mozzarella, it is embellished by pomegranates, dates and coloured dots - which are presumably spices.
According to archaeologists, the colourful setting of the dish, surrounded by a cup of red wine, arbutus leaves, pomegranates, and dates, is part of an ancient Greek tradition of hospitality known as "xenia." 
In ancient Greece, the tradition of xenia advocated a strict relationship between a host and a guest. Both parties had to respect each other and avoid any acts of disrespect. Also, hosts had to give their guests some gifts of hospitality, which often included the best food they could make or afford. 

A bakery in Pompeii. C: Wikimedia Commons

"Pompeii never ceases to amaze us; it's a treasure box that always reveals new jewels," said Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano.