16th Century

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Among many other treasures, the first tomatoes were brought from Latin America to Europe during the Spanish Conquest.

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16th - 18th Century

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Tomatoes took hold around the Mediterranean region from Spain to Italy through the Kingdom of Sicily, ruled at the time by the Spanish royal family.

The French got to know this amazing fruit and got a taste for it too.

Tomatoes became central to the country's cooking, especially in Provence where they bloomed under the warm climate.

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18th Century 

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The Grand Tour tradition brought many British people to Mediterranean countries looking for new experiences and sensations.

Seeking the taste of sunshine, they brought tomatoes back to the UK.

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