Brezel likely originated in medieval Europe, probably in the German-speaking or northern Italian regions between the 6th and 12th centuries. One common theory is that monks shaped the dough to resemble crossed arms in prayer, which is also linked to the Latin word bracellus (“little arms”), although the exact etymology remains disputed.

Pretzels became especially associated with southern Germany, particularly Bavaria, where lye-dipped pretzels developed their modern dark crust and chewy texture. In medieval guild systems, bakers often used the pretzel as a trade symbol, which is why it still appears on bakery signs across Central Europe.