I vaguely remember my facts from lessons taken in the hot and sticky classrooms in Kuwait. It was hard to keep my eyes open in History to be honest. But basically, Mussolini joined the scramble for Africa and part of the country was occupied by the Italians. Haile Selassie asked the League of Nations (which both Italy and Ethiopia were members of) for help, but it was refused and Italian East Africa (now Eritrea) was formally recognised. When World War II broke out in Europe, Britain (and Allied forced) stepped in to defeat the Italians in Ethiopia. (Or something like that...right, Mr Steve?)
But, considering the Italians were only in Addis Ababa for 5 years (I think. Tim?) the colony effort has made an imprint on the city.
The coffee culture in Ethiopia goes further back than the Italian occupation, but the Italian past is present. The many cafes around the Piassa are busy with men standing at bars, chatting about the days events while they drink a quick macchiato. Calling 'Ciao!' (really) before they continue on with their day. It is quite bizarre.
We spent the holidays comparing the coffee in different regions, but couldn't find better (or cheaper - 5 macchiatos cost just over $1!) than Tomoca Coffee, our favourite place in Addis.
(I stole Kelly's photo-thank you!)
Sounds like an interesting mix of cultures!
ReplyDeleteHi Robyn, I didn't realize (or possibly had forgot) that Ethiopia used to be an Italian colony. I'm one big Italy lover, but of course not the Mussolini part of Italy. How is the coffee like in Ethiopia compared to Italy? Similar?
ReplyDeleteSusi it wasn't a colony. It was occupied though. The coffee is very strong...often to thick and heavy for me...apart from in Addis-found some great cafes there!
ReplyDeleteIs it like the Italian coffee then, or stronger? I would probably like it:) Filter coffee is gross to me.
ReplyDeleteDo people speak Italian there?
Sometimes it was stronger...depends where you were. People said 'ciao' but apart from that, no. Obviously some guides etc spoke the language for tourists.
ReplyDelete