The history of coffee traces back to Mecca in the 15th century. Coffee was first cultivated in Yemen and quickly made its way to Mecca, where it gained immense popularity
Sufi monks in Mecca played a crucial role in popularising coffee. They used it to stay awake during their late-night prayers and rituals, finding that the drink helped them remain alert and focused.
The first coffee house, known as a "qahveh khaneh," opened in Mecca in the early 16th century.
Mecca's coffee houses attracted scholars, poets, and intellectuals.
Coffee houses in Mecca were central to social life, providing a space for community gatherings, entertainment, and relaxation.
From Mecca, the coffee house culture spread to other parts of the Islamic world, including Cairo, Istanbul, and Damascus and finally reaching Europe.
Initially, coffee houses faced opposition from conservative elements who viewed them as places of vice. However, over time, they gained acceptance.
Modern coffee shops around the world owe their origins to these early establishments that started in Mecca.
The Ottoman Empire played a pivotal role in the proliferation of coffee houses beyond Mecca
Early methods of coffee preparation evolved over time, influencing the way coffee is brewed and consumed around the world today.