Origins and Early Adoption
Coffee is believed to have been introduced to Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) through trade routes connecting the Ottoman Empire with the Arab world. By the 16th century, coffee had gained popularity in Ottoman society.
The first coffeehouses, known as "qahveh khaneh," began to appear in Istanbul and other major cities. These coffeehouses quickly became centers of social interaction, intellectual discussions, and leisure activities.
The Rise of Turkish Coffee
The distinctive brewing method associated with Anatolian coffee, where finely ground coffee beans are boiled with water and sometimes sugar in a cezve (small pot), gained prominence during the Ottoman era.
This brewing technique allowed coffee to become an integral part of daily life. The brewing process was developed into an art, with the foam on top of the coffee being particularly important. This style of coffee preparation became known as "Turkish coffee."
Global Spread and Influence
Anatolian coffee culture had a significant impact on coffee consumption and preparation methods worldwide.
The brewing methods and the social aspects of coffee consumption were also adapted and integrated into various cultures.
Modern Era
Turkish coffee has retained its cultural significance in Anatolia and beyond. While modern coffee culture has brought espresso-based drinks to the forefront, Turkish coffee continues to be cherished as a traditional and nostalgic beverage. Coffeehouses, while fewer in number, still exist in Turkey and maintain their role as places for socialisation and discussions.
In recognition of its cultural importance, "Traditional Turkish Coffee Culture and Tradition" was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2013, highlighting the enduring significance of Anatolian coffee in the modern world.