January 17 is World Pizza Day—a time to celebrate the dish that has stolen hearts (and stomachs) around the globe. For Italians, pizza is more than just food; it’s a national symbol, with nearly 90% of the country recognizing it as a cornerstone of their culinary heritage. And what better way to honour this beloved creation than with a day dedicated entirely to it?
The Origins of Pizza
Pizza’s roots run deep, dating back to ancient civilizations like the Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans, who all enjoyed their own versions of flatbread. But the pizza we know and love today was born in Naples in the 18th and 19th centuries. Back then, pizzerias were little more than bakeries, and one of the first, Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba, opened its doors in 1738. Over time, pizza travelled far beyond Italy, gaining major popularity in the United States during the 19th century and truly exploding worldwide after World War II.
How World Pizza Day Came to Be
The idea for World Pizza Day itself isn’t ancient, though—it was officially established in 2018. The date, January 17, honours St. Anthony, the patron saint of pizzaioli, or pizza makers. In Naples, these artisans get a well-deserved half-day off to celebrate their craft and their role in sharing this iconic dish with the world.
Italy’s Pizza Powerhouse
Italy remains the heart of pizza-making, producing a jaw-dropping 2.7 billion pizzas every year using hundreds of thousands of tons of flour, mozzarella, and tomato sauce. Beyond its culinary importance, pizza is big business, generating around €15 billion annually and providing jobs for over 100,000 people.
A World of Flavors
But pizza’s appeal isn’t confined to Italy—it’s a global love affair. From the thin and simple pizza Napoletana to deep-dish Chicago-style pies, there’s a version for everyone. Adventurous eaters can try toppings like Nutella, fruit, or even quirky combos like pierogi filling or Cheetos. And if January 17 isn’t enough, pizza fans can mark their calendars for other holidays, like International Pizza Day on February 9 or the U.S.’s National Pepperoni Pizza Day.