The history of coffee: an ancient beverage still enjoyed today

Coffee, the beverage that awakens our senses and enriches our mornings, is not just an everyday pleasure, but a veritable cultural institution. Adored the world over, coffee brings people together, creating memories and sharing conversations. But where does this beverage, so central to so many people's lives, come from?

The legendary origins of coffee

The history of coffee often begins with the legend of Kaldi, an Ethiopian shepherd. According to legend, Kaldi discovered the energizing properties of coffee beans after observing the unusual energy of his goats who had eaten the fruit of a certain shrub. Intrigued, Kaldi tried the fruit himself and felt a renewed vivacity. Local monks, seeing this, developed a drink from the roasted beans to help them stay awake during their long hours of prayer. Thus began the history of coffee, first cultivated and consumed in Ethiopia before crossing borders.

Coffee spreads throughout the Arab world

Coffee soon made its way from Ethiopia to the Arabian Peninsula, where it became an important part of society. In the 15th century, the first coffee houses, known as "qahveh khaneh", began to appear in cities such as Mecca and Cairo. These establishments became social gathering places, where people discussed politics, played chess and listened to music. Coffee was seen as an intellectual beverage that stimulated debate and reflection.

European and global expansion of coffee

In the 17th century, coffee arrived in Europe via Venetian merchants and quickly became popular. European cafés, like their Arab counterparts, became centers of social and intellectual life. In Paris, London and Vienna, cafés attracted philosophers, writers and artists. With the rise of coffee roasting, each region began to develop its own methods for exalting the unique flavours of artisan coffee.

The modern era and the rise of specialty coffee

Today, the world of coffee continues to evolve, with growing interest in specialty coffee and artisan roasting practices. Consumers are increasingly aware of the origin of coffee beans and the importance of eco-responsible practices. At Café Castelo, we carefully select specialty coffee beans to offer our customers a unique taste experience, with a focus on sustainable and responsible production. We have an eco-responsible policy visible on our website, and a full R&D department to bring greener, more economical alternatives to market. 

From the Ethiopian shepherd to the cup of coffee we enjoy today, coffee has come a long way, becoming an integral part of our lives. At Café Castelo, we celebrate this rich history by offering coffees that not only taste good, but also tell a story. Discover our passion and expertise in every cup.