Mariella The history of Spritz in Naples is fascinating. It is not just a trendy drink; it is a ritual that combines taste and a very particular way of understanding pleasure. It is a sigh before nightfall, a luminous pause between work and life.
If you have already read our guide on where to drink in the city, you know that the lungomare is filled with orange glasses. But today we are going to travel back in time to discover the true origin of this cocktail.
The Origin of the Aperitivo: From Rome to Parthenope
To understand the history of Spritz, we must first look back. The word aperitivo comes from the Latin aperire, which means “to open”.
The Romans already practiced it with spiced wines. Naples, heir to that Mediterranean spirit, adopted this custom very early on. In ancient Parthenope, drinking herbal infusions before eating was the way to prepare the soul for social gathering.
The Historical Cafés: The Perfect Setting
The modern ritual took shape in the 19th century. It is here that the history of Spritz later crosses paths with the golden age of the oldest salons in the city, temples of culture such as:
- Caffè Gambrinus: A meeting point for artists and politicians since 1860.
- Caffè Aragonese: Frequented by the aristocracy.
In these halls with golden ceilings, the first “amari” (bitter liqueurs) were served, paving the way for what was to come.
The Curious History of Spritz: Austrian or Italian?
Although today it seems very Italian, the geographical origin of Spritz goes back to the domination of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the Veneto region. This is the key to the entire history of Spritz.
Legend has it that Austrian soldiers found Italian wine too strong. To dilute it, they asked for a splash of sparkling water. The term comes from the German verb “spritzen” (to spray or splash). Over time, a bitter liqueur (such as Aperol or Campari) was added, creating the icon we love today.
How does it arrive in Naples?
The arrival of Spritz to the south followed two paths:
- The Tourism Boom (70s-80s): Introduced as a summer drink.
- The Social Aperitivo (2000s): Neapolitan youth adopted it for being fresh and light.
In Naples, Spritz found its Mediterranean soul. Today there are local versions such as the Limoncello Spritz or the Volcanic Spritz.
From Glass to Plate: When the Aperitivo becomes a Feast
In the Neapolitan history of Spritz, food is fundamental. Here, one does not drink without eating. The aperitivo is accompanied by small fried pizzas or a classic toast with tomato and oil.
It is the hospitality of the south: where there is a drink, there is abundance.
A Ritual to be Lived
Today, whether on the Lungomare or in Chiaia, this ritual is still alive. From Austrian soldiers to the terraces facing Vesuvius, the history of Spritz is proof that traditions evolve for the better.
In Naples, you don’t just grab a drink. You celebrate life.
Salute!
Your Neapolitan girl
