Pizza may be a global favourite today, but its roots stretch back centuries through different cultures and traditions. From rustic flatbreads baked over open fires to the refined classics of Italy, each style tells a story of history and flavour. Join us as we slice into some of the world’s oldest pizza styles that shaped the dish we know and love.
This article is for general information and cultural interest only. Historical origins of foods may vary depending on sources and regional traditions.
1. Neapolitan Pizza
Neapolitan pizza is the ultimate classic, loved for its soft, thin base and puffy, charred crust fresh from a blazing wood-fired oven. The magic lies in its simple toppings – usually just tomato, mozzarella, and basil – which let the dough shine.
Authentic versions follow strict preparation rules, from hand-kneading the dough to baking in under two minutes. Bite into one and you’ll understand why it’s considered the gold standard of pizza.
2. Sicilian Pizza
Sfincione, Sicily's ancient pizza tradition, dates back to the 17th century. Unlike its Neapolitan cousin, this rectangular delight boasts a thick, spongy base reminiscent of focaccia.
Traditionally topped with onions, anchovies, breadcrumbs and local cheeses rather than mozzarella. The name comes from the Arabic word "sfang" meaning sponge – perfectly describing its airy, oil-rich texture that soaks up every bit of flavor.
3. Roman Pizza
Roman pizza has a personality all its own, crisp and light with a thin base that contrasts perfectly with its flavourful toppings. Instead of being served whole, it’s often sold by the slice, letting you choose exactly how much you want.
The long fermentation of the dough makes it airy and easy to digest. Simple, tasty, and endlessly versatile, it’s the kind of pizza made for everyday eating.
4. Focaccia Pizza
Think of focaccia as pizza’s ancient cousin, a fluffy flatbread rich with olive oil and flavour. Its dimpled surface soaks up herbs, seasonings, and toppings beautifully, giving each bite a burst of taste. Some versions even come stuffed with cheese for extra indulgence.
It’s proof that sometimes the simplest doughs have the most staying power.
5. Lahmacun
Turkish Lahmacun (pronounced "lah-ma-joon") dates back to the Byzantine Empire, making it one of the world's oldest pizza-like dishes. This crispy flatbread comes topped with minced lamb or beef mixed with peppers, tomatoes and aromatic spices.
Often called "Turkish pizza," it's traditionally rolled around fresh vegetables and herbs before eating. The name derives from Arabic words meaning "meat with dough" – a perfect description of this ancient street food.
6. Manakish
Manakish has graced Levantine breakfast tables for thousands of years. This ancient flatbread from Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Palestine features a circular base typically topped with za'atar (a thyme and sesame seed blend) or cheese.
Local bakeries prepare these aromatic discs early each morning. The dough receives distinctive thumb-pressed indentations that hold pools of olive oil and toppings, creating flavor-packed pockets in every bite – a technique dating back to early civilizations.
7. Greek Pizza
Greek pizza takes a different approach with its thicker, chewier crust baked in shallow pans. A generous drizzle of oil gives the dough a rich, almost bread-like texture that’s deliciously satisfying.
Toppings like feta, olives, and oregano bring unmistakable Mediterranean flair. It’s hearty, bold, and perfect for those who like their pizza on the filling side.
