“Tea, Coffee and Story”: A Comparative Look at Coffeehouses and Teahouses Across the Ten ECO Member States
The thirteenth issue of Econameh, the electronic magazine of the ECO Cultural Institute, has been published for Mehr 1405 (October 2026), marking the second year of the publication. This issue features a special article titled “Tea, Coffee and Story,” exploring the role of coffeehouses and teahouses in the social life and cultural heritage of the ten ECO member states.
Chapter One: Tea, Coffee and Story
The main feature examines coffeehouses and teahouses as spaces for social interaction, storytelling, and the preservation of cultural traditions across the ECO region. The comparative study focuses on four key themes: the origins and social functions of these establishments; storytelling through visual arts, oral narratives, and music; tea- and coffee-drinking rituals as expressions of hospitality; and the contemporary status of these spaces, including women’s participation and the evolving concept of the “third place” in modern life.
Chapter Two: Events and Activities of the ECO Cultural Institute
The second chapter highlights major events and activities organized or supported by the ECO Cultural Institute. These include an introductory session on Uzbekistan and the launch of the book Mi'raj-e Āb; a commemoration of Sadequain and the opening of an exhibition of his works; a meeting on expanding cultural and artistic cooperation with Isfahan; a commemoration of Shams and Mowlana; a tribute to Mustansar Hussain Tarar in Lahore; the exhibition “Ze Afaq-e Door,” featuring calligraphy by Amir Jalilvand; the publication of the Institute’s fifth newsletter; and the announcement of the results of the ECO Mobile Photography Festival, themed “Transmission of Intangible Heritage.”
Chapter Three: Cultural Events Across ECO Member States
The third chapter presents cultural news, events, and activities from across the ECO member states, highlighting the region’s cultural vitality and diversity. It also features information on upcoming events in member countries.
Through Econameh, the ECO Cultural Institute seeks to showcase cultural initiatives across its member states and strengthen cultural ties among the peoples of the region. Researchers, artists, and those interested in the region’s culture and heritage are invited to contribute articles and perspectives to future issues.
Read Issue 13 of Econameh: https://online.fliphtml5.com/elysd/uqja/