In 1615, the momentum for introducing chocolate to France was driven by the efforts of Anna of Austria, a Spanish princess who brought chocolate drinks to the French court upon marrying King Louis XIII. Anna even included her maid Molina in the process of preparing the queen's cocoa drink.
A century later, Louis XV developed a notable fondness for chocolate, occasionally crafting his own hot chocolate in the kitchens of his Private Apartments. His mistresses, including Mme Du Barry, also valued the exotic beverage for its aphrodisiac qualities. Concurrently, the invention of the first chocolate-making machines led to the establishment of specialized workshops in Paris.
Chocolate transformed into a symbol of status and a fashionable beverage among the Parisian aristocracy, subsequently spreading to the upper echelons of European society. Valued for its fortifying, aphrodisiac, and energizing attributes, hot chocolate gained popularity over the centuries, especially during the Industrial Revolution.
Despite its ascent to prominence, not everyone enjoyed the flavor of chocolate. In fact, one pope declared that it could be consumed during fasting periods due to its disagreeable taste.
Chocolate Evolution in France
