A part of the Italian culture for centuries, just like pizza and the delicious pasta, gelato, also known as ice cream, finds its origins on Asian territories. Some food historians attested that the Chinese were preparing frozen desserts as early as the year 3000 BC by mixing crushed ice with various fruit flavorings. According to them, Marco Polo would be the one responsible for introducing these sweet delights to Italy, and from there, to the entire Europe and the Americas.

However, other historians argue that these claims are questionable, bringing proofs that only five centuries later, the Egyptian pharaohs used to offer a similar concoction made of ice and fruit juices their guests. The Romans are also said to have had the custom of consuming a mix of honey and ice.

One thing is sure: during the Renaissance days, gelato was already popular in Italy. During a food contest held in Florence, a chicken farmer named Ruggeri prepared a sort of sorbet that was highly appreciated by the sponsors - the Medici family. This recipe earned Ruggeri a place at Caterina de Medici’s court.