In a heartwarming tribute to Naples, the iconic Gay-Odin chocolate factory has unveiled a remarkable 350-kilogram Easter egg as part of the “Napoli Millenaria” project celebrating the city’s 2,500-year legacy. Paying homage to the historic southern Italian city and its deep cultural roots, the egg stands as both a culinary marvel and a symbolic piece of art. Crafted in the Chiaia district factory where Isidoro Odin and Onorina Gay first introduced their artisanal chocolate expertise in the late 1800s, the egg honors the northern Piedmontese chocolatiers who became part of Naples’ fabric.
At the center of the egg is a beautifully hand-painted depiction of Parthenope, the mythological siren associated with the city’s origins. Designed by master decorator Fabio Ceraso, the artwork illustrates the siren surrounded by rolling waves and a fiery sunset. According to legend, Parthenope cast herself into the sea after failing to enchant Ulysses, her body washing ashore at Megaride, the site of Naples’ famous Castel dell’Ovo. Her image, immortalized in sugar glaze and natural vegetable-based pigments, reflects the fusion of mythology, tradition, and artistic excellence.
On the reverse side, the egg features an homage to the heart and soul of Naples. Portraits of the city’s beloved icons—actor Totò, musician Pino Daniele, and football legend Diego Maradona—are nestled among universally recognized symbols like Neapolitan pizza and the Castel dell’Ovo. The egg is also adorned with the words “2500 years of legendary history” and features the classic blue and gold Gay-Odin emblems, serving as a tribute to both the city and the brand’s heritage.
The three-week creation process involved meticulous craftsmanship, with massive chocolate moulds being hand-brushed and filled with rich dark chocolate. The shell, roughly the size of a 2.5-meter-long boat, was assembled and decorated with precision. The natural color gradients were achieved with plant-based glazes, adding vibrant life to every curve of the piece.
Set to be sold for approximately €12,000, the egg also contains a hidden surprise appropriate to its grandeur—though its contents remain a closely guarded secret. According to the Gay-Odin team, the mystery gift inside is as extraordinary as the egg itself, offering an extra delight for whoever is lucky enough to acquire this one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
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