Pizza is one of the most beloved dishes in the world, enjoyed by millions daily in various styles and flavors. But beyond its delicious taste, pizza has some fascinating facts that many people don’t know. Here are five interesting things about pizza that every fan should learn:
1. Pizza’s Origin Is Italian – But Its Global Fame Is Modern
While pizza originated in Naples, Italy, as a simple flatbread topped with tomatoes, cheese, and herbs, its global popularity didn’t take off until after World War II. Returning American soldiers brought their love for Italian pizza back home, and it quickly became a hit across the U.S. and then worldwide.
2. The Margherita Pizza Has Royal Roots
The classic Margherita pizza was named after Queen Margherita of Italy in 1889. It features tomatoes (red), mozzarella (white), and basil (green), symbolizing the colors of the Italian flag.
3. October Is National Pizza Month
In the United States, October is celebrated as National Pizza Month. It was first observed in 1984 by Gerry Durnell, the publisher of Pizza Today magazine, to honor the growth and influence of the pizza industry.
4. The World's Most Expensive Pizza Costs Thousands
Some gourmet pizzas come with luxury toppings like gold flakes, truffles, and caviar. One such pizza, called "Louis XIII," made in Italy, costs over $12,000 and takes 72 hours to prepare!
5. Americans Eat 3 Billion Pizzas a Year
In the U.S. alone, approximately 3 billion pizzas are consumed annually, with pepperoni being the most popular topping. That’s about 46 slices per person per year.
Whether it’s a quick snack or a fancy feast, pizza remains a universal comfort food with a rich history and some surprising trivia behind every slice.