Italian Gelato Culture and History
Gelato is more than a dessert in Italy—it's part of the national identity. From its early roots in Renaissance courts to its place on every Italian street today, the story of Italian gelato is one of innovation, passion, and cultural pride.
From Ancient Treat to Italian Artistry
Frozen desserts existed in ancient Rome and Egypt, but the creamy, dense gelato we know today took shape during the Italian Renaissance. That’s when Bernardo Buontalenti, a Florentine innovator, introduced a milk-based frozen cream to the Medici court—considered the first version of modern gelato.
From Sicily to Paris: The Spread of Gelato
In the 17th century, Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli brought gelato to Paris, founding the first gelateria in Europe. But it was in Italy, particularly in Sicily and Northern regions like Emilia-Romagna, that gelato truly flourished, becoming a national passion passed down through generations.
The Rise of Everyday Gelato
By the 20th century, with the invention of gelato carts and better refrigeration, gelato became part of everyday Italian life. Families flocked to local gelaterie, and children grew up associating summer days with the taste of hazelnut, pistachio, or stracciatella.
The culture of gelato became synonymous with Italian lifestyle: authentic, handmade, and deeply regional.
What Makes Italian Gelato “Artigianale”?
Italian gelato artigianale means gelato made fresh, usually daily, using traditional slow-churning methods and natural ingredients—no artificial flavours, no shortcuts. This distinction is taken so seriously that Italy has even begun efforts to have artisanal gelato recognised as UNESCO cultural heritage.
As part of our commitment to authentic Italian gelato culture, Wave Gelato proudly participated in the Sherbeth Festival last year, the world’s most important event dedicated to gelato artigianale, held annually in Sicily. And we’re excited to announce that we’ll be returning this year too.
Sherbeth isn’t just a competition—it’s a celebration of the world's best gelatieri, where passion, tradition, and innovation come together. Being selected and participating places us among the global leaders in artisanal gelato, and reinforces our promise: to deliver real Italian gelato, made the right way.
