by The History of the World's Most Popular Beverage
At Roastiva, we know that our customers love their daily cup of coffee. But have you ever stopped to wonder about the origins of this popular beverage? Who discovered coffee, and how did it become the world’s most widely consumed drink? In this blog post, we’ll explore the various theories and legends about the discovery of coffee.
The Legend of Kaldi
One of the most famous legends about the discovery of coffee involves a goatherd named Kaldi, who lived in the Ethiopian highlands in the 9th century. According to the legend, Kaldi noticed that his goats became more energetic and playful after eating the berries of a certain shrub. Curious, Kaldi tried the berries himself and found that they had a similar effect on him. He shared his discovery with the local monks, who began to boil the berries to create a drink that kept them alert during long hours of prayer. This legend is supported by historical evidence that coffee plants have been found in the Ethiopian highlands dating back to the 9th century (Read More Here). Ethiopia is still one of the largest producers of coffee today.
The Legend of Sufi Mystics
Another legend attributes the discovery of coffee to Sufi mystics in Yemen. According to this story, the Sufi mystics would chew the coffee beans to help them stay awake during long periods of meditation. They also brewed the beans to create a drink that would give them a boost of energy. The popularity of this beverage quickly spread throughout the Arab world, and coffee soon became a staple in homes and coffeehouses.
The Historical Evidence
While these legends are certainly interesting, there is also historical evidence that supports the idea that coffee was first cultivated and consumed in Ethiopia. Coffee plants have been found in the Ethiopian highlands dating back to the 9th century, and the country is still one of the largest producers of coffee today.
Conclusion
So, who really discovered coffee? It’s difficult to say for sure, as the origins of this beloved beverage are shrouded in legend and myth. However, it is clear that coffee has been enjoyed by people around the world for centuries and has played a significant role in many cultures and societies. Whether you’re a coffee lover or not, the history of coffee is a fascinating and rich subject that is worth exploring.