The history of coffee: from Ethiopian origins to the French’s favorite drink

There’s nothing better than a good cup of coffee to warm our hearts and stimulate our senses. This gourmet drink, today consumed by 90% of the Frenchha a story Also rich and complex like the multitude of its delicious aromas. Coffee has crossed centuries and continents to become this nectar that we appreciate so much. How did these coffee seeds become the essential ritual, morning or otherwise, of millions of people today?

The origins of coffee are pretty vague, it is originally from Ethiopia, but it was cultivated for first time in Yemen. There are many of them legends describing his discovery. We at Cafés Méo honor this fascinating history every day through every range we offer you. So let yourself be taken on a fascinating journey into the heart of the history of coffee.

At the origins, from Ethiopia to Yemen

Still cultivated in the region and a true national treasure, it is the mountains of Ethiopia that have the honor of being considered the cradle of coffee. Historians place its origins in the Kaffa region where the first «Coffea arabica» is said to have grown.

From the Ethiopian plateau, coffee crossed the Red Sea to reach Yemen, where the first plantations appeared in the 15th century. The Ottoman people will learn to cultivate and sublimate the grain crop. Coffee is quickly gaining a foothold in local culture, so it makes sense to see Arab merchants carrying their favorite beverage with them on their travels. Then begins the incredible expansion towards the rest of the world, the spread of coffee is as rapid as its popularityfar beyond the borders of Ethiopia and Yemen.

A legendary or mythical story?

But it would be all too simple to just leave a historical mark on this magical drink. Because there is a much more poetic and magical version that probably dates back to the 8th or 9th century.

Born in Ethiopia, initially cultivated in Yemen, many legends tell of its discovery. But do you know the legend of the young shepherd Kaldi?
One day, Kaldi finds that his herd of goats is restless and bleating loudly instead of sleeping. A small shrub with red berries was the source of this excitement. Kaldi picked some berries and took them to the village monks to try to find an explanation. The monks saw it as the devil fruit and threw it into the fire.
Like a divine miracle, the toasted fruits then release a captivating aroma. The roasted beans were then collected by the monks and placed in water to be preserved, giving rise to what would become the first cup of coffee. As they tasted this delicious drink, they felt its benefits and vowed to drink it every day to help them stay awake during long night prayers.

Thus was born the legend of coffee, a myth that will soon conquer the world, combining tradition and passion.

The conquest of Europe and then of the rest of the world

It was in Constantinople, in the 16th century, that the first public cafés opened, attracting intellectuals and thinkers. Victim of religious controversies and political bans, coffee being little known, is immediately criticized and represents a threat, because some nicknamed it the “drink of the infidels”. But coffee resisted and consumption quickly spread to the East. Inevitably, starting from 1600, thanks to Venetian traders, it continued its journey towards Europe, and the nectar soon aroused mixed reactions in Italy. It is a novelty that scares as much as it amazes and the fear of seeing this fabulous drink turn heads, minds and beliefs will gradually give way to definitive popularity among monks, traders and people.

Cafés arose in the main European cities, the first public places dedicated to the consumption of the masterly drink of the same name. Venice opens the ball, followed closely London and Paris from the 17th century.

A controversial drink

These institutions become places of life, nerve centers of social and intellectual thought. Philosophers, artists, writers and revolutionaries meet over a cup of coffee to discuss ideas that will change the course of history. Between reasoned discussions and asserted criticisms, public opinion is emerging. According to the German philosopher J. Habermas it does not exist I wouldn’t have had lights without coffee.

From a stimulating drink with precise aromas to a symbol of modernity and change, there is only one step. In France, in the 18th century, Parisian cafés were meeting places for thinkers and reformers; it was around a table and a coffee the French Revolution it was partially thought out. Discussions about freedom and equality have taken shape around this captivating and inspiring drink.

Today, more than a drink, an indispensable ritual

Each morning often begins with the warm scent of a cup of coffee, enjoyed at home, at a bistro counter, or even carried along the way.

Today, “the little cafe«it is much more than a simple drink, it is a ritual deeply rooted in our daily life and in our know-how. The coffee break at work or in private life is a sacred moment decompression, conviviality and relaxation.

Traditions and consumption patterns

Our ways of consuming coffee vary greatly depending on the country our cultures and our ways of life. If every cup has the power to awaken our senses and influence our health, not all of us have the same relationship with coffee.

• In Italywe enjoy a fast and intense espresso, often enjoyed standing at the bar.

• In Türkiyethe coffee is strong and thick, accompanied by sweets and long discussions.

• Au Japancoffee is a refined art, with meticulous attention paid to every stage of preparation.

Here, café au lait for breakfast or little black after lunch are now consolidated traditions. In FranceCafés play a central role in social and cultural life. Parisian cafesin particular, they are famous for their unique atmosphere and their rich historythey are meeting places and of social alchemy : a meeting with friends, a solitary literary break or a silent reflection while observing passers-by. So French.

The history of coffee is far from over. Innovation continues to play a key role. At home Café MéoWe are always looking for new ways to improve the quality of our coffee and reduce ours environmental impact.

We work closely with coffee farmers around the world to promote sustainable and equitable agricultural practices. By supporting and investing in farming communities environmentally friendly technologieswe make sure that every cup of coffee you enjoy is not only delicious, but also ethical and responsible. We celebrate this rich history by committing to perpetuate this tradition of quality and passion. So, next time you have a cup of coffee, don’t hesitate to close your eyes and let yourself be carried away by it incredible adventure.