Bean Tales

Trace the origins and history of coffee: how did “coffee” get its name?
The Origins of Coffee: The cultural significance of coffee can be traced back to its early origins in Ethiopia. According to legend, a goat herder named Kaldi noticed that his goats became particularly energetic after eating berries from a certain plant. He shared this discovery with monks, who began brewing the berries to help them stay awake during long prayers. The stimulating effects of coffee quickly made it valuable where it was used to enhance focus and endurance. By the time coffee reached Yemen in the 15th century, it became... Read more...
The Mysterious Stelae of Axum: Giants of Ancient Engineering
[Yerer, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; not the kingdom of Axum] Photographer: Leti Tamrat Ancient Ethiopia, known historically as the Kingdom of Aksum, is home to one of the most fascinating and enigmatic marvels of engineering: the giant stelae of Axum. These towering structures reach up to 24 metres (79 feet) in height, these were built over 1,700 years ago and remain a testament to the advanced craftsmanship and architectural intelligence of the Aksumite civilization. The stelae of Axum were primarily created as markers for underground burial chambers and are intricately carved... Read more...
The Ancient City of Byblos: Home to the World's First Alphabet Soup
[Hermel, Lebanon: photographer Kassem Mahfouz]   In the heart of the ancient Levant lies the city of Byblos (modern-day Jbeil, Lebanon), one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. While Byblos is known for its rich history and archaeological significance, one of its most charming and light-hearted contributions to history is its connection to the creation of the alphabet. Byblos was a bustling port city and a major centre of trade and culture during the Bronze Age. It played a pivotal role in the development of the Phoenician... Read more...
The Enigmatic Lady of Elche: A Masterpiece of Iberian Art
[Alhambra, Spain: not the Lady of Elche] Photographer: Victoriano Izquierdo   One of the most intriguing artefacts from ancient Spain is the Lady of Elche, a stunning limestone bust that has captivated historians and archaeologists since its discovery in 1897. This masterpiece of Iberian art dates back to the 4th century BCE and provides a fascinating glimpse into the culture and artistry of the ancient Iberians. The Lady of Elche is a finely detailed sculpture of a woman, notable for her elaborate headdress and intricate jewellery. Her enigmatic expression and... Read more...
The Ancient City of Çatalhöyük: A Glimpse into Neolithic Urban Life
[Turkey, photographed by Mar Cerdeira: not the Çatalhöyük] One of the most fascinating archaeological sites in Turkey is Çatalhöyük, an ancient city that offers a unique glimpse into the lives of Neolithic people over 9,000 years ago. Located in the Konya Plain, Çatalhöyük is considered one of the earliest urban centres, dating back to around 7500 BCE. What makes Çatalhöyük particularly intriguing is its distinctive architecture and social organisation. Unlike modern cities with streets and open spaces, Çatalhöyük was a sprawling settlement where homes were built closely together in a honeycomb-like... Read more...
The Venetian Gondola: An Engineering Revelation of the Renaissance
Venice, also known as the floating city, is well-known for its inspirational network of canals and the iconic gondolas (boats specifically designed for the Venetian canals), that navigate them. But, interestingly, the design of the Venetian gondola is a fascinating blend of artistry and engineering, perfected over centuries. Find out more about this revelation. The gondola, as we see it today, took its shape around the 16th century during the Renaissance. Its asymmetrical design is what fascinates us the most. Interestingly, the gondola is slightly curved to the right, which... Read more...
A Caffeinated Globe
Coffee, one of the world's most beloved beverages, is much more than just a morning pick-me-up. Across different cultures, coffee embodies unique traditions, social practices, and spiritual significance. This blog post explores what coffee means to various cultures around the world, illustrating how this humble bean weaves into the fabric of daily life differently across the globe. Ethiopia: The Birthplace of Coffee Ethiopia, revered as the birthplace of coffee, offers a profound coffee culture rooted in ceremony and community. The traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony is an integral part of social... Read more...
Coffee and Sufism: A Blend of Mysticism and Aroma
Coffee, often viewed merely as a stimulant or a social beverage, holds a deeper, more spiritual significance in the realm of Sufism. This mystical tradition embraces coffee as a tool for concentration and a means of fostering community and spiritual awakening. In this blog, we explore the historical intertwining of coffee and Sufism, delving into how this beverage aids Sufis - the followers of this ancient culture, in their quest for divine knowledge and connection. The Historical Roots of Coffee in Sufi Rituals The relationship between coffee and Sufism dates... Read more...
International Dance Day: Flamenco in ancient Andalusia
On this international dance day we want to celebrate the ancient Andalusian Flamenco.    The history of flamenco dance is deeply intertwined with the cultural heritage of ancient Spain, particularly in the Andalusia region, and it has evolved over centuries through a blend of influences from various cultures, including the Moors, Gypsies, Jews, and Andalusians.   Flamenco is not just a dance; Its origins can be traced back to the multicultural society of Andalusia, where diverse cultural exchanges and interactions occurred during the medieval period.    A brief glance through... Read more...
Tales of the Lands: embark on a journey of Turkish coffee culture discovery
  A Journey into the Timeless Tale of Turkish Coffee: Step back to the mesmerizing era of the 16th century, where the threads of Turkish coffee culture intertwined with the vibrant tapestry of Arab influence. Picture the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, where tales of trade and tradition wove through the bustling markets. It was amidst these ancient streets that the tantalizing aroma of coffee first wafted, carried on the whispers of the Arabian winds. Originating from the mystic lands of Yemen, coffee found its eager embrace among the Arabs,... Read more...
A Voyage of Espresso History
  Welcome to the World of Espresso! Espresso, the beloved and revered cornerstone of coffee culture, has a rich and fascinating history that stretches back centuries. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a symbol of sophistication and indulgence, espresso has captured the hearts and palates of coffee enthusiasts around the globe. Join us on a journey through the past, present, and future of this iconic beverage.   A Tale of Italian Ingenuity The story of espresso begins in 19th-century Italy, where coffee culture was already thriving. Seeking... Read more...
What is a Spanish Latte and can it replace desserts: Tales of Ancient Andalusia
As we travel the ancient paths of Andalusia, we embark on an enchanting odyssey of coffee, a journey woven into the vibrant tapestry of Andalusian life. From the crack of dawn to the midnight hour, the golden elixir of coffee flows seamlessly, an indispensable companion to our spirited Andalusian lifestyle. Join me as we delve into the captivating realm of the Spanish latte.  The Spanish Latte The Spanish latte, a masterpiece in a cup, begins with a symphony of flavors—a double shot of espresso harmonizing with velvety steamed milk, all... Read more...