The History of Coffee: How This Beverage Conquered the World

Coffee is a beverage that has won the hearts of people worldwide, becoming an essential part of daily rituals. Its history is fascinating and full of remarkable twists that contributed to the global popularity of this aromatic drink.

Origins in Ethiopia

Legend has it that coffee was discovered in the 9th century in Ethiopia by a shepherd named Kaldi. He noticed that his goats became extremely energetic after eating the berries from a certain shrub. Kaldi decided to try the berries himself and experienced a similar rejuvenation. The news of the "magical" berries reached a local monastery, where monks began preparing an infusion from them to stay awake during night prayers.

The Spread of Coffee

From Ethiopia, coffee made its way to Yemen, where it began to be cultivated on a larger scale in the 15th century. Yemeni traders transported coffee to Mecca and Medina, from where it spread to other Arab countries. Coffee gained popularity throughout the Middle East and reached the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century.

Coffee in Europe

The first coffee beans arrived in Europe in the 17th century. Italians were among the first Europeans to appreciate the taste and properties of coffee. The first café opened in Venice in 1645. Soon after, coffee conquered France, England, and Germany. By the end of the 17th century, over 300 cafés were operating in London, becoming gathering places for intellectuals, artists, and politicians.

Coffee in the Americas

Coffee reached the New World in the 18th century thanks to Dutch, French, and Portuguese colonists. In Brazil, now the world's largest coffee producer, the first plantations were established in 1727. The rapid development of coffee cultivation in South and Central America led to lower prices and further increased the popularity of the beverage.

A Global Phenomenon

Today, coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world. Each year, over 400 billion cups of coffee are consumed globally. Cafés have become an integral part of urban landscapes, and coffee has become a symbol of daily pleasure and moments of relaxation. The history of coffee is a story of journeys, trade, and cultural transformations. From small plantations in Ethiopia to modern cafés in bustling metropolises, coffee has united people of various cultures, nationalities, and communities, becoming a truly global beverage.