1. Origins of coffee in Yemen:

It is believed that coffee was first discovered in Ethiopia, but Yemen was the first place where coffee was grown and traded on a large scale.

In the 15th century, Yemenis began to grow coffee beans in mountainous areas, such as Taiz, Ibb, Yafie, Hajjah, and Sana’a, where the climate and soil are ideal for this crop.

2. Port of Mocha - our brand name “MoQana” is derived from the name of the port of Mocha -:

A global trading center: The port of Mocha, located on the Red Sea, was the main gateway for exporting Yemeni coffee to the world.

The name “Mocha”: Yemeni coffee became known as “Mocha” after the port of Mocha, from where it was shipped to Europe and Asia.

16th to 18th centuries: During this period, Mocha was one of the most important ports in the world, as Yemeni coffee was considered one of the finest and most expensive types of coffee.

3. Spread of Yemeni Coffee:

From the port of Mocha, coffee spread to the Middle East, North Africa and Europe.

In the 17th century, coffee became popular in Europe, with the first coffee shops opening in cities such as Venice, London and Paris.

4. Characteristics of Yemeni Coffee:

Unique Flavor: Yemeni coffee is characterized by strong and rich flavors, with hints of chocolate, fruits and spices.

Light Roasting: Yemeni coffee beans are roasted lightly to medium to preserve their natural flavors.

5. Decline of the Port of Mocha:

Over time, the importance of the port of Mocha declined due to competition from other ports and the emergence of new sources of coffee in places such as Brazil and Indonesia.

However, the name "Mocha" is still associated with Yemeni coffee and is used to describe coffees with rich, chocolatey flavors.

6. Legacy of Yemeni Coffee:

Even today, Yemeni coffee is considered a symbol of Yemeni heritage and culture.

Coffee is grown in Yemen in traditional ways, making it one of the most distinctive coffees in the world.

7. Yemeni Coffee Today:

Despite economic and political challenges, Yemeni coffee is still grown and exported, and is highly regarded by coffee lovers around the world.

Yemeni coffee is an integral part of Yemeni identity, and is served at social events as a symbol of generosity and hospitality.

In short, the history of Yemeni coffee and the port of Mocha is a rich story that reflects Yemen’s role in spreading coffee culture to the world.