The history of coffee: how it went from a drink of kings to a daily ritual

The origins of coffee in the world

Coffee originated in Ethiopia , where, according to legend, a shepherd named Kaldi discovered its stimulating effects after watching his goats eat coffee beans. From there, it spread to Yemen, where monks used it to stay awake during their nightly prayers.

By the 15th century, coffee was already a part of everyday life on the Arabian Peninsula. It was served in coffee houses called qahveh khaneh , which became centers of culture, debate, and social gatherings.

Coffee arrives in Europe and conquers the royal courts

Coffee entered Europe in the 17th century through trade with the Ottoman Empire and quickly sparked a fascination. But in its early days, it wasn't an accessible beverage: it was reserved for the aristocracy and royalty , who embraced it as a symbol of sophistication and luxury.

• In France , Louis XIV incorporated coffee into court life at Versailles, where it was served in ceremonies with porcelain tableware.

• In England , it became popular in the courts and later in the first “coffee houses,” which would later influence the culture of public cafes.

• In Spain , the Bourbons introduced coffee at banquets and receptions, extending its prestige among the nobility.

Coffee went from being an exotic product to a symbol of power, luxury and modernity .

From a drink of kings to a social ritual

As coffee beans were imported from Latin America and Africa, coffee became more accessible. Public coffee houses flourished in cities like Paris, Vienna, and London, giving rise to a new social culture where people conversed, read, and shared ideas.

What was once a privilege of kings and nobles has become a daily ritual that now accompanies our mornings, meetings, and moments of enjoyment.

Coffee in modern life

Today, coffee still has that duality:

• Everyday , because it is part of the daily routine of millions of people around the world.

• Exclusive , because in its gourmet or specialty version, it maintains the elegance and pleasure that was once reserved for royalty.

Barista culture and the rise of specialty coffees are reinvigorating that luxurious experience, restoring prominence to the quality of the bean, the roasting, and the way it's served.

How to enjoy coffee like a king at home

Recreating the real coffee experience is not difficult:

1. Choose a premium coffee bean , single origin or balanced blend.

2. Grind it just before preparing your drink.

3. Use methods that enhance its aroma: espresso, French press, Italian moka.

4. Pair it with a relaxed atmosphere, good conversation, or a good book.

Discover our collection of coffee beans options that evoke the tradition and refinement that made coffee the preferred beverage of kings and courts.

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Frequently asked questions about the history of coffee

Where did coffee originate?

In Ethiopia, where it was consumed for centuries before spreading to Yemen and the Arab world.

When did coffee arrive in Europe?

In the 17th century, through trade with the Ottoman Empire, it was first a privilege of courts and nobles, and later became popular in coffee shops.

Why was coffee considered a luxury drink?

Due to its rarity, high cost and the exclusivity with which it was served in palaces and royal courts.

How did coffee go from being a drink of kings to a popular drink?

With the expansion of cultivation in America and Africa, coffee became more accessible and soon became part of everyday life in Europe and the rest of the world.