“Life is a Combination of Magic and Pasta”: Unraveling Italian Pasta’s History (2025)

Pasta has long been a staple of both Italian cuisine and culture, but its origins and early shapes have not been adequately studied. A critical aspect of Italian identity thus remains obscure. We know from ancient artwork and tools that the Etruscans and Romans enjoyed pasta. Indeed, archaeological findings show that pasta was a primary food source for Roman soldiers and civilians alike. Interestingly, the different types of wheat available seem to have influenced production methods. By replicating ancient techniques and using various kinds of wheat, I discovered a difference between pasta made for civilians and that made for soldiers. My findings offer a new understanding of an essential aspect of Italian culture and how it transformed an entire country.