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and deeply engaged in art, poetry, journalism, It is a living relic that has captured the spirit
academia, music, history, law, and various of bygone times and carries within its walls
cultural arenas, were invited by the Iraqi Ministry the echoes of countless discussions spanning
of Culture to share perspectives on Intellectual politics, philosophy, film, poetry, and art.
Property Rights and Sustainable Development. Every cup provides a reminder of the distinct
The five-day journey in Baghdad was more spectrum within the coffee sphere -from the
than an intellectual exploration; it was an fast pace of contemporary America to the calm
immersion in the city’s allure. Amidst the contemplative spirit of Baghdad.
historic grandeur, the timeless cafés stood as
havens of peace, and unlike the caffeinated Sitting here at the intersection of these two
whirlwind of the United States, these worlds, I reflect on the intricate ways coffee
establishments extended an invitation to sit, culture has merged itself into the very fabric
relax, and engage. In Baghdad, coffee was not of societies. I find myself having a deep
just a beverage; it was a medium for connection appreciation for the enduring nature of coffee,
and contemplation. a beverage that perfectly adapts to the pulse
of the moment while preserving the timeless
Inside the cafés, the air resonated with lively essence of shared moments and meaningful
conversations, which harmonized with the aroma conversations. As the aroma wraps around me, I
of finely brewed coffee, creating an environment am reminded that beyond the hustle and bustle,
that challenged the passages of time -each coffee remains a universal bridge, connecting
cup whispered tales of intellectual exchanges different cultures and histories in a symphony of
that transcended times. It gave me a poignant shared experiences.
reminder that the world of coffee involves a
spectrum -from the hurried pace of modern
America to the peaceful reflective Baghdad.

Nestled in the heart of Baghdad, stands the
Bridging Worlds Shabandar Café -an ancient haven of warmth
and culture. Its presence on Al-Mutanabbi
A Symphony of Coffee Culture from Street, in the city’s historic cultural oasis, renders
it not just a café but a bridge to a bygone era. As
Baghdad to the Bustle of America I reminisce, I can still feel the admiration I had
when I stepped through the doors at Shabandar
Café, and I still smell the captivating aroma of
By Marianne Rothmann - Cultural Communicator coffee mixed with the unique hot lemon tea and
shisha smoke.

I find myself sitting at a table at one of America’s coffee shops have become the story in which the Inside this beautiful café, the leather and wood
coffee giants taking in the senses of modern coffee constant motion of a society unfolds. seating acts as a remembrance of the countless
culture. The air is filled with the strong smell of stories, conversations, and shared moments
freshly brewed coffee, and the atmosphere has Coffee in the United States has turned into more that have taken place. Tables with antique brass
the energy of a society that is constantly on than just a beverage. It signifies awakening, decanters and aged samovars, stand as keepers
the move. The coffee shop is full of customers vigilance, and the necessary energy needed to of a tradition that has endured the ages, and the
holding on to their tall, medium, and grande on- navigate the intensity of a busy day -advertising walls adorned with portraits of Ottoman Pashas,
the-go cups. It paints a picture of the relentless reflects this sentiment as well, portraying coffee King Faisal II, and Iraqi Poets are not just
pace of American life. as the magical elixir that boosts productivity and decorations but reminders of the past telling a
pushes individuals through their daily routines. story of the rich cultures that have come together
As I watch, I am struck by the vibrant scene before My gaze wanders, and suddenly I am moved within these walls.
me -an American culture that thrives on speed and to another time, another place -the captivating
quantity. Here, coffee goes beyond just a morning cafés of Baghdad. Memories unfold and I recall Fete des sciences
Shabandar Café is a place filled with a nostalgic
ritual; it is a steady companion in the never-ending a unique experience where I and representatives charm, a gentle sign that in this modern world
race against time. With sleek and modern insides, from different corners of the world, all famously there exist sanctuaries where the past remains.

Library in Geneva
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