Calvisius was the Latin name for Calvisano, a village in the province of Brescia in Italy. The origin of this place-name is thought to be linked to a person whose Roman tombstone was found in Maderno. A legend tells of Calvisius, a nobleman with exquisite tastes, who during ancient Roman times moved to present day Calvisano, rich in fresh spring-water, to breed sturgeons and have fresh caviar at hand for his banquets. His guests were offered those precious black eggs according to a solemn rite. In fact the caviar was served in silver cups topped with scales of ice and garlands made of flowers. A real delight to see and taste! So popular was this grand host that his fame spread to all the surroundings.