It is believed that medieval Benedictine and Cistercian monks from Parma were the originators of the first Parmigiano Reggiano. It is likely that the cheese made in the 13th century was very similar in taste and appearance to the cheese made today.
The cheese quickly spread to neighboring regions of Italy and, in the 16th century, to many countries in Europe. The popularity of Parmesan in French, German and English cuisine led the Duke of Parma to claim the name and exclusive origin in 1612.
