Gelato has been popular in Europe for centuries.
Although there is some uncertainty as to where or who really invented gelato, it is popularly credited to Bernardo Buontalenti, a native of Florence, who delighted the court of Caterina dei Medici with his creation in the 16th century.
Apart from Bernardo, Sicilian born Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli was undoubtedly one of the most influential individuals in the history of gelato, as he was the first to sell it to the public. Summoned to Paris in 1686, he opened a café named after himself called “Café Procope”, which quickly became one of the most celebrated haunts of the literary establishment in France.
From that humble beginning more than 500 years ago, the art of traditional gelato making was passed on from fathers to sons in Italy, who improved and perfected the recipes over time.
In the 20th century, gelato makers began to emigrate, taking their know-how to other parts of Europe and abroad. And, just as you can now enjoy real Italian gelato on the streets of New York, the masterful skill of Fabio Ficcoronis, makes it possible for you can relish Lecca il Gelato here at the Southern tip of the African continent. |
