It seems to have slipped into long-lost history, but right after World War II, archaeologists began working in and around the Colosseum in Rome. Initially, their work was to ensure that the famed amphitheater and the area nearby had not suffered any damage due to the war. If there was damage, because the structure is considered a world treasure, efforts would be undertaken to support the building and the surrounding area.
In the process of evaluating the foundation of a nearby building, they located what they believed to be an early prototype of a “grab-and-go” pizza parlor. Wooden worktables were in the back, along with flat cookware — likely designed for cooking pizza. In the front was a waist-high wall, presumably a counter for serving pizza to customers.