Caffe Florian is a historical landmark in Venice and the oldest cafe in Italy. Founded in 1720, this iconic cafe has been a refuge for artists, musicians, and writers for centuries. Today, it continues to thrive as a hub for culture, history, and excellent coffee. Here is our guide to discovering the charm and history of Caffe Florian. Located in the historic center of Venice, just a few steps from St. Mark’s Square, Caffe Florian has been serving coffee to locals and tourists for over 300 years. The cafe is a true gem of Venetian culture and has been a popular spot for artists, intellectuals, and celebrities for centuries. The cafe is decorated in the style of the 18th century, with ornate chandeliers, plush velvet sofas, and gilded mirrors. The walls are adorned with paintings and antique engravings that celebrate the history and culture of the city. But Caffe Florian is not just a feast for the eyes. It’s also a feast for the ears. The cafe hosts live music performances daily, from classical concerts to jazz bands. This makes it the perfect spot to relax, sip on a cappuccino, and enjoy the sounds of Venice. One of the most popular attractions at Caffe Florian is its art collection. The cafe is home to an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that date back to the 18th century. Visitors can admire works by artists such as Canaletto, Guardi, and Carlevarijs, as well as marvel at the magnificent Murano glass chandeliers. Of course, the coffee at Caffe Florian is not to be overlooked. The cafe serves a wide variety of coffee drinks, from espressos to lattes to its signature drink, the Florian coffee. Made with espresso, cream, and chocolate, it’s the perfect drink to indulge in while taking in the beauty of the cafe. In conclusion, Caffe Florian is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates history, culture, and a good cup of coffee. Its rich history, art collection, live music performances, and delicious coffee make it a true Italian gem. So, the next time you’re in Venice, be sure to stop by Caffe Florian and experience the charm and history of this iconic cafe. How coffee got into Venice ? The story of how coffee arrived in Venice is an interesting one that dates back to the 16th century. It all started with the Ottoman Empire, which was a major player in the coffee trade at the time. Coffee had become a popular beverage in the Middle East and was being exported to other countries in the region. In 1574, the Venetian merchants were introduced to coffee when the ambassador of the Ottoman Empire, Suleiman Aga, offered the city’s officials a cup of the beverage. At first, the Venetians were skeptical of the drink, but they were intrigued by its exotic flavor and aroma. Soon after, coffee became a popular commodity in the city, and it started to be imported in larger quantities. Venice quickly became a hub for coffee trading, and it wasn’t long before the first coffee houses began to appear. These establishments were popular meeting places for intellectuals, artists, and businessmen, and they became an important part of Venetian culture. The first coffee house in Venice was called Caffe Florian, and it opened its doors in 1720. It quickly became a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and it remains one of the city’s most iconic landmarks to this day. Over time, the demand for coffee in Venice grew, and the city became one of the major centers of the coffee trade in Europe. The Venetians were known for their love of coffee and developed a unique way of brewing the drink. They used a device called the caffettiera, which was a pot with two chambers that allowed the coffee to be brewed slowly and served hot. Today, coffee remains an integral part of Venetian culture, and the city boasts some of the best coffee houses in Italy. From the iconic Caffe Florian to the trendy coffee bars that have popped up in recent years, Venice continues to be a hub for coffee lovers from all over the world. What