There are still 3,000 masters keeping the craft alive—Naples pizza is now an Intangible Cultural Heritage

▲ Jianwen, Taiwan’s only pizza maker certified by both the APN and APPN Naples associations. (Video/ETtoday)

By Rita

Pizza is no stranger to most of us, and thanks to globalization, enjoying foreign cuisine is not difficult. But did you know that this familiar food has recently become a world heritage item? The latest list of intangible cultural heritage published by UNESCO includes Naples pizza.

▲ Naples’ top-ranked pizzeria offers just two flavors, with a chewy crust, delicious sauce, and most importantly, an affordable price—truly a high-value national dish!(Photo/Cathy Yu, authorized for use)

According to Lonely Planet, the list of intangible cultural assets now goes beyond protecting objects (such as statues), also encompassing traditional skills and knowledge passed down through generations. UNESCO has noted that the four-step pizza-making method in Italy actually originates from Naples, where around 3,000 pizza makers still practice the craft. The techniques are still taught through apprenticeships, with trainees learning hands-on in pizzerias.

In addition to Naples pizza, there are other entries such as Germany’s organ-building art, Irish bagpipes, and Turkey’s whistled language. Now, visitors to Naples absolutely must try the pizza—it's a delicious tradition passed down through generations.


▲ %The first pizzeria in [untranslatable name]. Early in the morning, the entrance is already bustling with tourists and locals lining up. It’s like the Italian version of Din Tai Fung—you take a number and wait over an hour just to get in. (Photo/Cathy Yu, authorized for use)