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The Neapolitan pizza is much more than just food: it is a universal symbol of tradition, culture, and conviviality, officially recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2017. This prestigious recognition celebrates the art of the Neapolitan pizzaiolo, a mastery passed down through generations that skillfully combines simple ingredients, ancient techniques, and deep passion. Neapolitan pizza is characterized by its unmistakable features: the soft and elastic dough, the slightly puffy and golden crust, and the authentic toppings that strictly adhere to tradition. The classic variants are the Margherita, with tomato, buffalo mozzarella, fresh basil, and extra virgin olive oil, and the Marinara, with tomato, garlic, oregano, and olive oil. Prepared in wood-fired ovens at extremely high temperatures, Neapolitan pizza celebrates the quality of Italian ingredients, such as San Marzano tomatoes and DOP mozzarella. The art of the pizzaiolo goes beyond cooking: it is a true cultural ritual involving dough preparation, hand-stretching, and rapid baking, often accompanied by songs and local traditions. This intangible heritage represents not only Italian gastronomy but also the identity and creativity of an entire people, becoming a global symbol of sharing and joy. Today, Neapolitan pizza is loved and reproduced worldwide, but to truly experience it, nothing compares to a visit to the historic pizzerias of Naples, where you can enjoy this culinary marvel in its original context.
The World Pizza Day, celebrated on January 17, is a special day dedicated to honoring one of the most iconic and beloved dishes in the world: pizza. This date is no coincidence, as it coincides with the feast of Saint Anthony Abbot, the patron saint of bakers and pizzaioli, a figure deeply rooted in Italian culinary tradition. The event pays tribute not only to pizza itself but also to the art, history, and culture surrounding this unique dish. Born in Naples as a humble food, pizza has conquered the world thanks to its simplicity and versatility. Its classic variants, such as the Margherita and the Marinara, are symbols of Italian excellence, and the art of the Neapolitan pizzaiolo was recognized in 2017 as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. During World Pizza Day, pizzerias and pizzaioli in Italy and around the globe host special events to celebrate the mastery behind every pizza. It’s also a chance to explore creative recipes or rediscover the authentic flavors of traditional ones, often accompanied by stories of the origins of this beloved food. An interesting fact is that approximately 5 billion pizzas are consumed worldwide every day, making it one of the most popular foods ever. January 17 represents not just a gastronomic celebration but also a moment to honor the work and passion of pizzaioli, custodians of an art that blends tradition and innovation. Whether you prefer a classic, gourmet, or homemade pizza, this day is the perfect opportunity to pay tribute to the queen of the table!
