ISTANBUL, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- The rich aroma of freshly brewed Turkish coffee filled the air across Türkiye on Thursday as the nation celebrated "Turkish Coffee Day."
Observed annually on Dec. 5, the day commemorates the recognition of Turkish coffee culture and tradition as part of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2013.
Coffee enthusiasts and cafes nationwide marked the occasion with a variety of special events, including tastings, workshops, and storytelling sessions that showcased traditional brewing techniques. Major coffee chains also offered promotions and giveaways to attract customers.
Social media buzzed with messages of "Happy Turkish Coffee Day," accompanied by images of the iconic beverage.
Can Ozmen, owner of a popular Istanbul coffee chain, shared insights with Xinhua about what makes Turkish coffee unique. "The key feature is that it is consumed with its grounds," Ozmen explained. "Unlike other coffees, which are filtered, Turkish coffee is enjoyed in its entirety."
He also emphasized the coffee's exceptionally fine grind. "No other coffee is ground this finely," he said.
Turkish coffee's history dates back to the Ottoman era when the governor of Yemen introduced coffee beans to the Sultan in 1543. Over the centuries, it has become a symbol of Turkish hospitality and tradition, often served during social gatherings and important ceremonies, embodying warmth and connection both in Türkiye and beyond.
