Coffee Shops Reveal Cyprus Society

The Cultural Significance of Cypriot Coffee

Cypriot coffee is more than just a strong, bitter beverage. It is a symbol of the island’s rich cultural heritage and a reflection of its social dynamics. In her new book, Aspasia Papadima explores the deep roots of this national drink, delving into its cultural significance and the unique environment of traditional coffee shops.

Papadima, an associate professor at Cyprus University of Technology (Tepak), was inspired to write the book after realizing the vastness of the subject. She wanted to capture the essence of Cypriot coffee culture and the traditional coffee shop, which she believes is at risk of disappearing or transforming into something different.

The traditional coffee shop, often filled with elderly men playing backgammon, is a key part of Cypriot society. However, these spaces are under threat due to changing social norms and modernization. Papadima felt a strong need to document this phenomenon before it vanishes entirely.

Through her research, she immersed herself in the world of Cypriot coffee culture, studying the miniature of Cypriot society as reflected in these spaces. She focused on the beliefs, morals, and social structures that shape the coffee shop experience.

To capture the essence of these environments, Papadima worked with male photographers, believing that their perspective would allow for a more authentic representation. One of the photographers, Sophocles Karpasitis, documented the coffee shop culture with a realistic approach. Later, Nicholas Constantinou became her eyes and ears inside the coffee shops, collecting photographs, stories, and narratives over nearly two years.

Constantinou's work highlights the contrast between the traditional coffee shop and modern society. His photographs reflect the stillness within the fast-paced city, the leisureliness in a bustling urban landscape, and the simple enjoyment of a modest luxury. They also capture the frugality that stands in opposition to modern consumerism and the lingering stereotypes of patriarchal ideology.

Beyond photography, Papadima conducted interviews and focus groups with individuals from various backgrounds. She examined the gender dynamics within these spaces, analyzing how they reflect broader societal norms. Her research also included historical archives, international writings, and memoirs of foreign tourists who visited Cyprus.

Papadima's interest in gender issues extends beyond coffee shops. She studies how gender is portrayed in popular culture, including advertising, commercial signs, and the arts. In the context of traditional coffee shops, she sees them as a manifestation of patriarchy, examining the customs, practices, and even the design of the space.

The signs outside these coffee shops are typically functional and aesthetically neutral, reflecting the serious and indifferent nature of the environment. This austerity mirrors the male-dominated space where any form of embellishment might seem inappropriate.

Traditional coffee shops have long been places of social interaction, serving as centers of community life. Historically, they were multifunctional spaces where commercial transactions, marriages, and political discussions took place. They also acted as information hubs, where people gathered to read newspapers or listen to the radio.

Despite their decline in modern times, Papadima believes that traditional coffee shops will not disappear entirely. While they may become less common in urban areas, they may persist in rural regions where older generations reside. Some modern coffee shops are adapting to contemporary tastes while preserving the social function of their predecessors.

Her book, "Coffee and Coffee Shops," offers a comprehensive look at the history and culture of Cypriot coffee. It includes anecdotes and insights that highlight the unique character of these spaces. Published in Greek, the book is available in bookstores across Cyprus and Greece, priced between €12 and €14.

Papadima's work serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural traditions in the face of change. Through her research, she has shed light on the enduring significance of the traditional coffee shop and its role in shaping Cypriot identity.