| 'Annurca' | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Genus | Malus |
| Species | Malus pumila |
| Cultivar | 'Annurca' |
| Origin |  Italy |
Annurca, pronounced in Italy[anˈnurka], also calledAnurka,[1] is a historically oldcultivar of domesticatedapple native toSouthern Italy. It is believed to be the one mentioned byPliny the Elder in hisNaturalis Historia, and in the 16th century byGian Battista della Porta. However it was first mentioned by this name byGiuseppe Antonio Pasquale.[2][3]
Still today it is abundantly cultivated in Southern Italy,[4] typically at the border between theCaserta andBenevento provinces, in the valley which is called the "queen of apples".[3]
'Annurca' is one of the symbols ofCampania presumably at least since two millennia ago, as showed by thefresco paintings in theErcolano excavations, aRoman city which was destroyed by theEruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79, especially at theCasa dei Cervi.[3] It is believed that this apple is the one depicted at the ruins ofPompeii.[5]
'Annurca' has a white pulp, firm and crunchy, a sweet aroma, and a pleasantly acidic taste.[2] The apple doesn't ripen on the tree, but is carefully placed in the sun after it is picked until it turns red.[3] However, it is still notable for its characteristic flavor and high firmness, linked to its high concentration ofpectin, which changes its composition during the reddening process.[4]
There are two selected clones of 'Annurca',Standard andRossa del Sud ("Red of the South").[4]
This cultivar is a very important fruit in theNeapolitan cuisine, is listed on theArk of Taste as a unique local cultural and traditionalslow food, and enjoyProtected Geographical Indication status within theEuropean Union under the label "PGI Melannurca".[2]
