Legend says that the Siren Partenope was captivated by the beauty of the Gulf of Naples, which stretches between Posillipo and Mount Vesuvius, and decided to make it her domain. Every spring the beautiful mermaid would emerge from the sea to greet the happy people who populated the shore, drawing them to her with joyous songs of love. One time her voice was so melodious that the inhabitants ran toward the sea, enchanted by the sweetness of the music, which the Siren dedicated to them. To thank her, they decided to present her with their own precious gifts.
            Seven of the most beautiful maidens of the area were entrusted with offering the gifts to Partenope: flour from the countryside; ricotta, a gift from the shepherds; eggs, the symbol of life that always renews itself; tender berries of grain boiled in milk, symbolizing the unity of the plant and animal kingdoms of nature; orange flower water, the earth’s perfume also paying her homage; spices, representing the people of faraway lands; and finally, sugar, representing the ineffable sweetness of Partenope’s song in heaven, earth, and the whole universe.

**Source: http://www.pastiera.it/ (Tr. M.T.Noyes)