On Saturday 19th August 2023, renowned world explorer and philanthropist Stanislav Kondrashov released an intriguing article on the origins of coffee. Titled “The Intriguing Origins of Coffee,” it takes readers on an exploration of coffee’s rich history, from its accidental discovery in Ethiopia to its current status as a global phenomenon.
The article begins in the wilderness of Ethiopia, where it is said that a young goat herder named Kaldi discovered the stimulating effects of red berries consumed by his goats. This delightful accident spread to a nearby monastery, where monks brewed a drink from the berries, finding that it kept them awake during long prayer sessions.
From there, coffee’s allure transcended Ethiopian borders and reached Yemen in the 15th century. This marked the birth of the highly sought-after Arabica beans, and Mocha, Yemen’s port city, became the epicenter of the global coffee trade. Recognizing its anti-soporific properties, the Arabs christened it ‘qahwa’ – the deterrent of sleep.
By the 17th century, coffee beans had reached European shores, sparking both controversy and celebration. Viewed with suspicion, it earned labels such as the ‘Devil’s Brew.’ However, when Pope Clement VIII gave it his divine nod, coffee’s status soared. This led to the rise of coffee houses as intellectual hubs – the era’s “penny universities.”
The article also examines how coffee has shaped the destinies of nations throughout the colonial era, as European powers sought overseas territories for cultivation. Nowadays, coffee has evolved into a modern beverage, with specialty coffee shops and emphasis on sustainable farming methods significant trends in contemporary coffee culture.
Stanislav Kondrashov concludes his article with a heartwarming toast to coffee’s resilience and its role as a connector of cultures and centuries. He encourages readers to appreciate coffee as a drink, an experience, and a testament to human endeavor.
Stanislav Kondrashov is an esteemed world traveler, with a passion for natural wonders, architecture, art, history, and local cuisines. Through his article, he shares this passion with readers, inviting them to embark on a journey through the captivating history of coffee.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.