The fascinating history of coffee

The Fascinating History of Coffee: From the Ethiopian Highlands to Global Coffee Culture

Coffee is more than just a beverage – it is a cultural phenomenon that has connected people around the world for centuries. From its mythical origins in Ethiopia to the opulent coffeehouses of Europe and the modern Third Wave movement, the history of coffee has been immortalized in countless anecdotes, innovations, and traditions. Discover how this once exotic drink became an essential part of our daily lives.

The history of coffee is a journey through time and space, shaped by discoveries, legends, and cultural developments. What began as a modest discovery in the mountains of Ethiopia has evolved into a global phenomenon that has profoundly influenced the way we work, communicate, and enjoy life.

Coffeehouses became gathering places for artists and intellectuals, while the introduction of coffee to the colonies revolutionized global trade. Today, coffee is not only an indispensable part of our daily lives but also a symbol of quality, sustainability, and culture. 

Join us on a journey through the history of coffee, from its roots to the modern coffee culture we know and love today.

Origins and Legends

Ethiopia (9th century): The discovery of coffee is often traced back to the Kaffa region in Ethiopia. A legend tells of a shepherd named Kaldi, who noticed that his goats became especially energetic after eating red coffee cherries. He brought the cherries to a monastery, where monks drank the first coffee and found that the beverage helped them stay awake.

Spread in the Arab World – Yemen and the Arabian Peninsula (15th century): Coffee cultivation began in Yemen. The city of Mocha became an important trading hub for coffee, which is why "mocha" is still a synonym for coffee today. Coffee beans became known in the Arab world as "qahwa," a term that was originally used for wine.

Ottoman Empire (16th century): Coffee reached the cities of the Ottoman Empire through trade routes, particularly Istanbul. There, the first coffeehouses (Qahveh Khaneh) emerged, becoming important social centers where people gathered to discuss, play games, and exchange news.

Coffee Reaches Europe

Introduction to Europe (17th century): Coffee was brought to Europe by merchants and travelers from the Middle East. The first European coffeehouses opened in Venice, and from there the coffeehouse culture quickly spread to cities like Vienna, Paris, and London. Coffeehouses became important meeting places for intellectuals, artists, and businessmen.

Vienna and the Turkish Siege (1683): After the second siege of Vienna by the Turks, the invaders allegedly left behind sacks of coffee beans, which led to the founding of Viennese coffeehouse culture. This legend is often cited as the origin of Vienna’s coffee tradition, renowned for its distinctive preparation methods and famous cafés.

Global Cultivation and Trade

Colonial Era and Coffee Plantations (17th–19th centuries): European colonial powers such as the Netherlands, France, and Great Britain introduced coffee cultivation to their colonies. The Dutch first grew coffee in Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and later on Java (Indonesia), while the French brought it to Martinique and the British to Jamaica. Coffee cultivation quickly spread throughout South America, particularly in Brazil, which today is the world’s largest coffee producer.

Brazil and the Rise of the Coffee Empire (19th century): Brazil began large-scale coffee cultivation in the early 19th century and soon became the world’s leading producer. The expansion of coffee farming brought massive changes to the country’s economy and society, including the establishment of the plantation system and a reliance on slave labor, until the abolition of slavery in 1888.

Modern Coffee Culture

Industrial Revolution and Coffee: With industrialization and the rise of the working class, the demand for coffee as an everyday beverage grew. Coffee became a symbol of energy and productivity, and the development of coffee imports and exports contributed to the global spread of the drink.

The Invention of Espresso (20th century): In Italy, espresso became popular in the early 1900s. The introduction of espresso machines revolutionized coffee preparation by producing quick and concentrated shots of coffee. This led to the emergence of modern Italian coffee culture and the spread of espresso bars around the world.

The Rise of Specialty Coffee (21st century): In recent decades, coffee culture has continued to evolve, with a focus on quality, sustainability, and transparency. The Third Wave of coffee emphasizes origin, cultivation methods, and roasting techniques that create unique flavor profiles. This movement has led to the rise of specialty coffee, micro-roasteries, and a new generation of coffee enthusiasts.

The Importance of Coffee Today

Coffee is now one of the most consumed beverages worldwide and a major economic sector. The coffee trade is a global business with an annual turnover of several billion dollars, employing millions of people—from farmers in producing countries to baristas in cities around the world.

Sustainability and Fair Trade: In recent years, topics such as fair trade and sustainable cultivation have gained significance. Many consumers prefer coffees produced under fair working conditions and with respect for the environment. These trends are shaping the future of the coffee industry and fostering a stronger connection between consumers and producers.

The history of coffee is a fascinating chapter in global cultural and economic history. From its mythical origins in Ethiopia to the modern specialty coffee movement, coffee has always proven to be more than just a drink—it is a cultural phenomenon that connects people all over the world.