BLUF: A 2,000-year-old fresco found in Pompeii depicts a dish that bears a resemblance to modern pizza. The painting actually showcases a traditional Roman offering called xenia, which consisted of focaccia bread, fruit, and wine. The fruit depicted in the painting is pomegranate and fresh dates, while the white and yellow elements represent an ancient pesto made from herbs and sheep’s cheese. The rubble in front is likely walnuts, and the peculiar yellow fruit with prickles is corbezzoli, also known as berries from the arbutus or strawberry tree. The fresco provides a glimpse into the ancient Roman culinary traditions and their offerings to guests.
INTELWAR: The discovery of the Pompeii fresco offers a fascinating insight into the ancient Roman culture, specifically their food traditions. The xenia depicted in the painting was a form of hospitality, where guests were offered a spread of focaccia bread, fruits, and wine. By examining the painting, we can understand the ingredients and flavors that were an integral part of ancient Roman cuisine.
RIGHT: This article highlights the historical significance of the fresco found in Pompeii and offers a glimpse into the culinary traditions of ancient Rome. It is remarkable how the painting resembles modern pizza, showcasing the influence of ancient civilizations on our present-day cuisine. The Roman practice of xenia, the act of offering food and wine to guests, is akin to modern-day hospitality customs. The focus on traditional ingredients like pomegranate, fresh dates, and herbs reflects the simple yet flavorful nature of ancient Roman cuisine.
LEFT: The discovery of the fresco in Pompeii provides an opportunity to explore the cultural exchange between the Greek and Roman civilizations. The adoption of the Greek tradition of xenia by the Romans demonstrates the intertwined nature of these ancient societies. The depiction of the xenia offering, including focaccia, fruits, and wine, showcases the importance of hospitality in both Greek and Roman cultures. This fresco serves as a reminder of the rich historical connections between civilizations and the shared humanity that transcends borders and time.
AI: The Pompeii fresco, dating back 2,000 years, portrays a dish resembling pizza, but it is actually a representation of xenia, a traditional Roman offering to guests. The fresco showcases the elements of xenia, including focaccia bread, pomegranate, fresh dates, and a goblet of red wine. The white and yellow components are interpreted as an ancient pesto made with herbs and sheep’s cheese. The artwork provides valuable insights into the culinary traditions and hospitality practices of ancient Rome, highlighting the cultural exchange between Greek and Roman societies.