The History of Coffee: From Origins to Global Spread

origin

The history of coffee dates back to the 9th century BC, when it was discovered growing wild in the Ethiopian highlands. According to legend, a shepherd noticed that his sheep became unusually active after eating coffee berries. He then tried boiling the berries and drinking the juice. He immediately felt energized, so he told the monks at the local monastery about his discovery.

Spread to Arabia

Over time, coffee began to gain popularity in the Arabian Peninsula. People discovered that by grinding and brewing coffee beans, they could create a delicious and refreshing drink. Soon, the first shops specializing in coffee were opened in the Arabian region, becoming places for social gatherings and cultural exchanges.

European Exploration

In the late 15th century, European explorers began to sail across the oceans and brought back various rare items, including coffee beans from the Middle East. Coffee soon became popular in Europe and became a fashionable drink for nobles and intellectuals.

The formation of coffee culture

As coffee spread across Europe, various coffee-related cultural customs began to take shape. For example, in Italy, people like to sit in outdoor cafes and enjoy strong espresso, while in France, people prefer to slowly savor lattes with milk foam and chocolate powder.

Global Communication

With the advent of the colonial era, European countries further developed their own coffee planting and roasting techniques and brought these techniques to their colonies, which led to the rapid spread of the coffee industry and related cultural practices around the world.

Coffee in the Modern World

Nowadays, in almost every city around the world, you can find one or more coffee shops specializing in various types and flavors of coffee. Whether it is strong espresso, soft latte or iced mocha, people can choose according to their taste and preference.

Conclusion

From its origins to its global spread, coffee has become one of the world's most popular and widely consumed beverages. Not only does it provide a unique and delicious enjoyment, it has also become an integral part of social gatherings, cultural exchanges, and personal moments of relaxation.