Pear cultivation (Pyrus Communis L.) dates back to ancient times, with artifacts from Asia and Europe dating back over 4,000 years. The poet Homer recalls the plantations of Alcinous and Laertes, while Greek mythology attributes the pear to a healthy and flavorful fruit, favored by gods and heroes. From Magna Graecia, pear cultivation reached Rome, where it became widespread and became highly regarded: Cato and Pliny perfected cultivation techniques, while Pompey and Nero were enthusiastic consumers. After its medieval decline, this crop spread to Mexico and California thanks to Spanish missionaries, and to Europe, particularly Belgium and France, starting in the 1700s.
