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In 1884, Italian inventor and businessman Angelo Moriondo received the first espresso machine patent. His device brewed coffee faster and stronger than ever before by using steam and boiling water. In addition, he owned a number of restaurants and hotels in Turin where he displayed his creation. We shall discover more about Angelo Moriondo’s life, work, and legacy in this blog post.
Early Life and Education
Italy’s Turin was the place of Angelo Moriondo’s birth on June 6, 1851. He was from a powerful and affluent family that ran multiple establishments in the city. His father, uncle, and grandpa established a liqueur company; his brother and cousin founded a gas company; and his brother founded a chocolate company. Angelo’s family bestowed upon him an entrepreneurial drive and a fascination for invention.
After completing his education, Angelo began working in the family companies at the age of sixteen. Along with studying engineering and mechanics, he became passionate in creating new tools and machinery.
Career and Invention
Angelo Moriondo, a savvy entrepreneur based in Turin, invested in multiple hotels and restaurants, including the renowned Grand Hotel Ligure and the American Bar. Always seeking to enhance customer experiences, Moriondo keenly observed the popularity of coffee among his patrons. However, he recognized the drawbacks of the traditional brewing methods, which were time-consuming and often resulted in a subpar taste. Motivated to innovate, Moriondo set out to develop a machine capable of brewing coffee faster, with improved flavor and potency.
The result of Moriondo’s ingenuity was a machine utilizing steam and boiling water to extract a concentrated, aromatic coffee beverage from finely ground beans. Dubbed the “New steam machinery for the economic and instantaneous confection of coffee beverage,” Moriondo secured a patent for his invention on May 16, 1884, marking a historic milestone as the first person to patent an espresso machine. His creation revolutionized the coffee industry, earning him widespread recognition as the inventor of espresso.
Moriondo showcased his groundbreaking invention at the General Expo of Turin in 1884, earning a prestigious bronze medal for his innovation. Subsequent demonstrations at various fairs and exhibitions garnered positive feedback and accolades from both the public and the press. Continuously refining his machine, Moriondo sought further patent protection for his improvements and even constructed machines for personal use in his establishments, as well as for friends and colleagues.
Personal Life and Death
Angelo Moriondo wed Teresa, and together they raised four children: Giacomo, Agostino, Maria, and Luigi. As a dedicated husband and father, Moriondo exemplified generosity and compassion, actively supporting causes such as the Red Cross and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. A devout Catholic, he also held membership in the Knights of Malta.
Moriondo’s passing on May 31, 1914, at the age of 62 in Marentino, near Turin, marked the end of a life characterized by innovation and philanthropy. He found his final resting place in the family tomb at the Monumental Cemetery of Turin, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape the history and culture of coffee.
Profile Summary
| Name | Angelo Moriondo |
|---|---|
| Age | 62 |
| Partner | Teresa |
| Children | Giacomo, Agostino, Maria, Luigi |
| Education | Engineering and mechanics |
| Nationality | Italian |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| Favorite Color | Green |
| Favorite Food | Chocolate |
| Favorite Movie | The Great Train Robbery |
| Favorite Book | The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes |
| Favorite Hobby | Inventing |
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