Three cities, one coffee: Cairo, Istanbul, Vienna


The people of countless nations across the world are connected by a wonderful, enduring tradition: coffee drinking. For millions, this universal dark liquid is an everyday treat, a comfort and a stimulant - a tonic to slow the frantic pace of modern life for a few precious moments. A fascinating new exhibition focuses on the coffee-drinking customs of three great world cities: Cairo, Istanbul and Vienna.Combining modern photography with choice excerpts from a wealth of history and literature, this exhibition explores the true story of the global passion for coffee. Who discovered it, who brewed it for the first time, and who popularized it in different parts of the world? Is it true that an Ethiopian goat herder, a Yemeni dervish and a Ukrainian nobleman were all responsible for bringing coffee into our lives? These are just a few of the questions that the exhibition addresses - at the Millî Reasürans Art Gallery in Istanbul - as it reveals the colorful and surprising history of one of the world's favorite drinks. Curated by Suna Altan and featuring the spectacular photography of Manuel Çıtak, this 2016 show brings the cities of Cairo, Istanbul and Vienna together in a unique way to celebrate the joys of kahwa, kahve, Kaffee or coffee.When: Jan. 7 to Feb. 27Where: Millî Reasürans Art Gallery