Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
At QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast in Rome, we’re passionate about starting the day with authentic Roman flavors. Two of the most popular pastries for breakfast in Rome are the maritozzo and the cornetto—and while both are delicious, each has a distinct story and place in Roman culture. Here’s a deep dive into what makes these pastries unique, and why we love serving our guests a taste of Rome’s sweet history.
The Cornetto: An Italian Classic with French Roots
Let’s start with the cornetto, the Italian version of the croissant. While the French croissant is made with layers of buttery dough that create a light, flaky texture, the cornetto is a bit softer, with a tender, slightly sweeter crumb. The cornetto, which translates to “little horn” due to its crescent shape, became popular in Italy in the 20th century, and it’s now a staple in cafés and bakeries across the country.
Cornetti come in many varieties: plain, filled with custard, chocolate, or apricot jam. At QuodLibet, we source freshly baked cornetti each morning, giving our guests a classic Italian start to their day. However, for a truly Roman experience, nothing compares to the maritozzo.
The Maritozzo: A Roman Tradition with a Sweet History
The maritozzo is a beloved Roman pastry with roots that stretch back to ancient times. This sweet, soft bun, often split open and filled with whipped cream, has a history as rich as its filling. The name “maritozzo” is believed to come from “marito,” the Italian word for “husband.” In ancient Rome, it was customary for suitors to gift a maritozzo to their beloved, often as a symbol of affection or even a marriage proposal. Inside the bun, they would sometimes hide a small gift, like a ring, making it the ultimate romantic gesture.
The maritozzo has evolved over centuries, and while the whipped cream filling is a modern addition, the pastry remains a symbol of Roman tradition. Today, maritozzi are enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a dessert, and they’re especially popular during certain festivals, such as San Valentino (Valentine’s Day) in February. At QuodLibet, offering our guests a maritozzo is our way of sharing a piece of Rome’s heart with each visitor.
What Sets the Maritozzo Apart
Unlike the cornetto, the maritozzo has a denser texture, and its lightly sweetened dough complements the rich whipped cream filling. It’s an indulgent treat, typically enjoyed with a cappuccino or espresso. The maritozzo’s unique combination of light sweetness and rich filling makes it the perfect choice for those looking to savor the flavors of Rome.
The Cornetto and Maritozzo at QuodLibet
At QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast, we understand that breakfast is a special part of your stay. Each morning, we serve freshly baked cornetti and maritozzi sourced from our favorite local bakeries in Prati. Whether you prefer the familiar taste of a cornetto or want to try a maritozzo for a true taste of Roman tradition, we ensure our guests experience the best of both worlds.
Why the Maritozzo Is Famous in Rome
Beyond its romantic history, the maritozzo has become a cultural icon in Rome. Roman bakeries and pastry shops are proud to serve this specialty, and locals are fiercely loyal to their favorite spots. It’s not unusual for Romans to debate where to find the best maritozzo in the city! With its ties to Roman history and its uniquely satisfying flavor, the maritozzo has secured its place as one of Rome’s most beloved traditional pastries.
