Journey of coffee
The origin of coffee
Coffee, the aromatic drink that wakes us up in the morning and accompanies us through long working days, has had a remarkable journey. Its origin story takes us to the highlands of Ethiopia and from there to the whole world. In this blog post we delve into the fascinating history of coffee and trace its traces into our cups.
The Legend of Kaldi
The origins of coffee are often associated with a fascinating legend from Ethiopia. She says that one day a shepherd named Kaldi noticed how his goats became more lively and agile after eating berries from a particular tree. Curious about the effects of these berries, Kaldi tried them himself and experienced a similar energy boost. Word of the miracle fruits spread quickly, and so began the coffee journey.
The origin of the word "coffee"
The word “coffee” itself has an interesting etymology. It is derived from the Arabic word "qahwa", which originally meant "wine" or "intoxicating drink". This designation reflects the early use of coffee in the Arab world, where it was valued as an invigorating and stimulating drink.
The spread of coffee in Arabia
Coffee quickly became an integral part of Arab culture. In the 15th century, people in the region began growing and roasting coffee beans. Soon after, special coffee houses, also called "Qahveh Khaneh", became important centers of social interaction and cultural exchange. These places played a crucial role in the spread of coffee and its popularity in the Arab world.
The trip to Europe
Coffee came to Europe in the 17th century and quickly became very popular. Coffee houses became important meeting places for intellectuals and business people. The tradition of drinking coffee quickly spread across the continent and led to the emergence of coffee houses in cities such as Vienna, Paris and London.
Coffee plantations in South America
The discovery of the coffee plant outside of Africa took place in the 17th century when coffee seeds were smuggled into South America. Brazil eventually became the largest coffee producer in the world, followed by other countries such as Colombia and Ethiopia.
Coffee industry today
Today, coffee is one of the world's most important commodities and an integral part of many people's everyday lives. Coffee culture has evolved and there are a variety of coffee types, preparation methods and flavors.
From the Ethiopian highlands to the farthest corners of the world, coffee has traveled a long way. Its history is rich in legends, culture and social significance. Next time you enjoy a cup of coffee, remember that you are part of a fascinating journey that began centuries ago in the mountains of Ethiopia and has spread across the world.
