The history of coffee from its origins to the most appreciated drink

Coffee is the most consumed drink in the world, after water, and is a symbol of relaxation and daily energy. The history of coffee is fascinating, with deep roots in the ancient traditions and legends of the world. From its discovery in Ethiopia to its rapid spread around the world, coffee has evolved from a religious stimulant to a global beverage enjoyed by millions.

The origin of coffee: the legend of Kaldi’s discovery

The history of coffee begins around the 9th century according to the legend of the shepherd Kaldi.

According to this legend, Kaldi was an Ethiopian shepherd which he noticed that his sheep were becoming very energetic after eating the red fruit of a wild shrub.

The berries of the shrub were the cause of his goats’ euphoria and after that he tried them himself and discovered their stimulating effect.

The berries were then used by the monks of a nearby monastery to stay awake during long hours of prayer.

They were distributed to other monasteries and then exported abroad. Thus coffee was born.

How coffee arrived in Arabia and the Muslim world

Coffee beans came to Arabia from Ethiopia. Coffee cultivation began in Yemen in the mid-15th century. From the pilgrimage sites of Mecca and Medina, coffee quickly spread throughout the Arabian Peninsula.

The port city of Mocha was, until 1720, the world center of the coffee trade. For this reason, until the 18th century, «Moka» was drunk in cafes throughout Europe. It was an extremely expensive drink, which only the nobility could afford.

The coffee bean trade remained in Arab hands for many years until, at the beginning of the 17th century, some brave Dutch traders managed to bring coffee beans to Europe.

The appearance of the first coffees

In the 15th century, Muslim pilgrims introduced coffee using different types of coffee beans, and more and more places sprang up where coffee was enjoyed. The coffee is called K’ hawah, which means invigorating.

Coffee arrives in Europe and the impact of bars

In 1600 the Venetians introduced coffee to Europe. Around 1650 England began to import coffee and the first delicious coffees appeared in Europe too. And Boston will be the first city to open a coffee shop. Coffee consumption is expanding throughout the world to become the most pleasant act of daily life, early in the morning.

Coffee in the 21st century: production, varieties and technological innovations

Due to growing demand, more and more coffee plantations are appearing in tropical countries to produce even more coffee. Brazil, Colombia and Vietnam are among the largest coffee producers. Annual production in the 20th century was between 6 and 7 million tons, whereas 100 years earlier it was only 10,000 tons. And coffee has more and more variety to be able to seduce a wider audience.

Reference data in the history of coffee:

1475 – The world’s first coffeehouse, in Constantinople

1600 – The first coffee shop in Europe opens in Venice, Italy.

1652 – The first coffeehouse opens under the name «Penny Universities», in London, England.

1683 – The first café in Austria opens in Vienna.

1822 – The prototype of the first coffee machine is invented in France.

1905 – The first commercial espresso machine was invented in Italy

1938 – Nescafè invents instant coffee

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Today, coffee has become the most popular drink after water, with over 400 million cups consumed every year.

With its aroma, coffee brightens our mornings and gives us energy. If you want aromatic coffee, from the most important producers in the world, we invite you to do so Espresso coffee. Choose your favorite coffee and we will deliver it to you quickly.
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