Pizza is one of the most popular foods in the world. It’s especially loved in the United States, where Americans eat an astonishing 3 billion pizzas a year! But where did this delicacy originate, and how has it made its way to our shores? Next time you are ordering a pie at your favorite pizza place, remember where it all began.

History & Facts About Pizza

The First Pizza

Though it wasn't exactly the same as the modern pizza we know and love today, the concept was present throughout many early civilizations around the globe. Its origins date back to the Neolithic age, or the late Stone Age period. Back then, people would lay a thin sheet of dough over a hearth and cook it until it was done. Later civilizations, such as Ancient Greece and Egypt, would add recognizable toppings, such as herbs, cheese, and garlic, to flavor their flatbreads. The first documented use of the word "pizza" was in the year 997 in the Italian city of Gaeta.

Pizza Through the Ages

The biggest development in pizza came in the late 18th century in Naples when tomato was added to the focaccia flatbread used in most Italian pizzas at the time. For many years, pizza was largely considered a meal for the poor. It was a cheap meal that could be eaten by the slice as people walked on the street. However, when it was introduced to royalty in the late 1800s and then to the Allied troops in Italy during World War II, pizza began to soar in popularity around the world. In 1945, the first gas-fired pizza oven came on the market, allowing restaurants and shops to bake pizza quickly and inexpensively.

Pizza Today

Today, you can find a pizza place almost everywhere. Of course, you can get your slice from one of the many national chains, but some of the best pizza in the world is from local restaurants that have been around for decades. When it comes to toppings, you have many classic options, such as pepperoni or sausage, but many pizza places offer specialty pizzas these days, as well. From seafood to spinach and everything in between, almost anything goes on top of a savory pizza crust.

Located in Gulf Shores, AL, Papa Rocco's offers some of the best pizza and oysters in the area. Whether you are hanging out at the bar with friends during Happy Hour or listening to live music on date night with your sweetie, you'll love the atmosphere and food at this popular pizza place. Papa Rocco's serves delicious food at reasonable prices, and they are open until midnight every day. Check out the menu on their website or call (251) 948-7262 to place a carryout order.