Origin of Coffee
The story begins in Ethiopia around the 9th century. According to legend, the goat herder Kaldi discovered the coffee plant when his goats became unusually lively after eating its red berries. He shared his finding with a monk, who used the berries to stay awake during nightly prayers – and thus began coffee's history as a source of energy.

The Journey to Arabia
In the 15th century, coffee spread from Ethiopia to Yemen on the Arabian Peninsula. Here, it was cultivated and quickly became a favorite in cities like Mecca and Medina. The first coffee houses, qahveh khaneh, emerged as hotspots for intellectual discussions on politics, religion, and art.

The Conquest of Europe
Coffee reached Europe in the 17th century via Venice's trade routes. Initially, it was met with suspicion – some called it the "Devil's drink" – but Pope Clement VIII blessed it after a taste test, paving the way for its acceptance. Soon, coffee houses flourished in London, Paris, and Vienna, earning the nickname "penny universities" for their affordable access to enlightening discussions.

Coffee in America
In the 18th century, coffee crossed the Atlantic to the American colonies. After the War of Independence, it became a symbol of freedom as patriots ditched British tea in favor of coffee, cementing its place in American culture.

The Industrial Era
In the 19th and 20th centuries, coffee became a global commodity. Technological advancements revolutionized production, and countries like Brazil and Colombia emerged as coffee giants. The invention of instant coffee made the drink even more accessible.

Modern Coffee Culture
Today, coffee culture balances global dominance with local finesse. Chains like Starbucks have made specialty coffee a worldwide trend, while small coffee shops promote sustainability and quality through the "slow coffee" movement.