The earliest mention of coffee dates back to the 9th century, nestled within the works of Razes, who referred to the bean as 'bunca' or 'bunchum'. Initially, coffee beans were chewed, rather than processed into the familiar liquid form. It wasn't until around 1200 AD that the practice of brewing coffee as a beverage gained traction, with raw beans being utilized in these initial experiments.
The 14th century marked a significant turning point in the history of coffee as the process of hull removal, drying, roasting, and grinding became common practice. This finely ground powder was then mixed with boiling water, heralding the birth of the brewed coffee we know today. The popularity of coffee surged further in the 15th century when Mufti Gemaleddin Abou Abdallah introduced it to Aden, inspired by tales of its wondrous effects during his travels in Persia.
In 1453, coffee found its way to Constantinople through the Ottoman Turks, paving the way for the establishment of the world's first coffee shop, Kiva Han, in 1475. From there, the coffee culture spread like wildfire throughout Arabia, with pilgrims carrying it in their bags to holy cities such as Mecca and Medina.
The Arabs were not only the pioneers of coffee cultivation but also its foremost traders. By the 15th century, coffee was being grown in the Yemeni district of Arabia, and by the 16th century, it had captivated the palates of Persia, Egypt, Syria, and Turkey. Yemen emerged as a key player in coffee production, with extensive cultivation taking root between 1250 and 1600, shaping the region's economy and culture.
By the mid-16th century, coffee had firmly established itself as a staple beverage across the Arab world, with bustling coffeehouses becoming hubs of social and intellectual exchange. According to Bernard Lewis, these coffeehouses served as the Middle East's equivalent of the taverns in Europe, fostering vibrant discussions, artistic expression, and community cohesion.
In conclusion, the history of coffee in the Arab world is a tale of innovation, trade, and cultural exchange. From its humble origins to its transformative impact on society, coffee continues to weave its aromatic threads through the fabric of Arab history, leaving an indelible mark on both the past and present.
A Rich Brew: Tracing the History of Coffee in the Arab World
