It is International Cappuccino Day! Cappuccino is probably one of the most famous types of coffee around the world, most coffee lovers enjoy a good Cappuccino, and some stores even sell a frozen version of this drink. You have probably enjoyed many times yourself, but have you ever wondered the origin of this delicious drink?

Where does the Name “Cappuccino” Come From?

Most coffee names come from the Italian language, and their meanings are usually related to the way they are made, espresso, for instance, means “pressed out”.However, the Cappuccino has a completely different origin, when this drink was introduced for the first time in Italy, it was named after the Capuchin friars, due to the colour of their robe is similar to one of the espressos when mixed with milk.

When was the Cappuccino Invented?

Even though in Vienna the name Kapuziner already existed, the actual Cappuccino was invented in Italy, adapting the name to what we know today. It was first made when the espresso machine became popular around 1901, but it only appears on records in the 1930’s.Soon enough it became a very popular drink in restaurants and cafes all around Italy. At the moment, espresso machines were very big and complicated to function, so they were only operated by skilled baristas.Images from that time, show that an important part of the Italian culture was to visit specialized cafes where there were espresso machines, to enjoy long conversations and readings while drinking different types of coffee. Cappuccinos were served following the “Vietnamese” style, with a topping of whipped cream and chocolate or cinnamon sprinkles.

The Evolution of the Modern Cappuccino

It was after World War II that espresso machines were simplified, making them more available for different cafes and restaurants. Then the preparation process was also simplified and the whipped cream was substituted by foam, or cream.These changes helped Cappuccino to become known all across Europe, but it is until this era that the real Cappuccino was born, because it was the time when it gained popularity in different countries, keeping the same characteristics we know today.

The Origin of Cappuccino | History of Cappuccino - Cafe 1820