Yunus Emre InstituteOn 5 June 2024, Yunus Emre Enstitüsü – London hosted an event that was both a historical exploration and a cultural celebration. Monica Porter, an author and journalist with decades of experience, presented her book “A History of Europe in 12 Cafes” to an engaged audience. The event offered a window into the past, where cafes were not just places for refreshment but platforms for change.
During her enlightening talk, Monica Porter delved into the rich history of Europe’s coffee houses, illustrating their evolution from simple establishments to grand social arenas that played pivotal roles in cultural and political movements. She highlighted the origins of coffee culture in İstanbul, the opulence of early coffee houses, and their spread through trade routes into Europe, with Paris’ Café Procope being a notable example. Monica also touched upon the unique coffee house niches in London, each catering to different professions, and the historical significance of Oxford’s coffee scene. During her talk, Monica enthralled the audience with a chapter from her book as well and her narrative brought to life the stories of these communal spaces and their impact on society, from hosting intellectual debates during the Enlightenment to fostering revolutionary ideas that shaped nations.
The talk was moderated by UK Critics’ Circle Member and BBC Broadcaster Phillip Bergson. As an Oxford graduate, Phillip enriched the event by reading a passage from Monica’s book about the historic cafes of Oxford. His recollection of the cafes, intertwined with his own memories of the university city, added a layer of nostalgia and authenticity to the discussion. He spoke of the cafes as not just places for coffee but as institutions where ideas and innovations were as much a part of the menu as the beverages served. This personal connection to the content of the book provided attendees with a vivid picture of Oxford’s cafe culture and its significance in the broader narrative of European history.
The book signing that followed was a warm and intimate affair. Monica took the time to connect with each attendee, sharing personal anecdotes and insights as she signed their copies. The queue of eager readers snaked through the event hall, each person clutching their book like a treasured keepsake.
As the evening wound down, the Institute demonstrated the art of Turkish coffee preparation, explaining the entire process from fine grinding of beans to the careful pouring of the rich, aromatic brew while ensuring that it has the foamy top layer! Attendees savored the robust coffee, paired with an assortment of Turkish nibbles and Turkish delights, creating a convivial atmosphere that mirrored the communal spirit of the cafes featured in Monica’s book. The serving of Turkish delights, a tradition steeped in history, added a sweet note to the evening’s cultural tapestry.
The event was not just an academic discussion; it was an immersive experience that celebrated the enduring legacy of Europe’s cafes. For those who missed the event, Yunus Emre Institute’s website at yeelondon.org.uk provides information on upcoming events.