Argentina: Neapolitan pizza a symbol of roots tourism

(ANSA) - BUENOS AIRES, 20 SET - The Neapolitan pizza as a vehicle for promoting Italian food and wine excellence and as a testimonial for the Italea programme, which aims to grow root-based tourism. This is the main objective of the fourth edition of the Pizzaioli School Championship, in Buenos Aires on 28 and 29 September, within the framework of the International Tourism Fair and under the auspices of the Consulate General of Italy.
    "This championship is a reality that has grown over time and this year's edition represents a particularly special event because it is held in the framework of the Year of Italian Roots in the World in which the Italian government inaugurated the Italea programme," commented Consul General Carmelo Barbera, at a press conference presenting the event. Barbera then emphasised that "the initiative acquires even greater relevance because it takes place in Argentina, a country where almost half the population is of Italian origin".
    'Pizza has its origins in Italy, and we at the Scuola pizzaioli claim its origin, tradition, but also the current panorama and evolution of the sector,' Juan Pablo Padrevita, founder of the institute in Buenos Aires and creator of the event, said for his part. Padrevita highlighted not only the development that the championship has seen over the course of the various editions, but also 'the growing interest of the Argentinean public in the traditional Neapolitan pizza recipe'.
    More than 100 participants from all Latin American countries have registered for this year's edition and will compete in 10 categories. The Championship will also include a masterclass by renowned Neapolitan pizza maker Carlo Sammarco, creator of the 'canotto' pizza.