Originally from Campania but now widespread in the whole country, Neapolitan pastiera is a dessert that can be found in the city during the Easter holidays. It hides many stories about its origin, starting from the story of the mermaid Partenope, symbol of the city and protagonist of the fountain in Piazza Sannazzaro.

According to the legend, the mythological figure emerged every spring from the waters to offer songs to the local people, who, in order to thank her, commissioned seven of the most beautiful girls from the villages around the gulf to give her some gifts: wheat, flour, ricotta cheese, eggs, orange flower water, sugar and spices. The mermaid brought these specialties to the gods, who mixed them together, thus giving rise to the dessert.