italy has given the world many delicious cheeses, and, without a doubt, Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano are among the most notable and beloved. Ubiquitous in our kitchens, they are commonly used in pasta dishes, can be incorporated into fillings, and overall enhance our culinary experiences.

But, while some people use them interchangeably—or even think they are the same!—their distinct histories, production methods, and regional connections actually reveal a different story. Time to find out more.