It's not just a quick cup of coffee. It's a ritual, almost something sacred. Now Italy wants to see espresso on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage - cultural phenomena worth preserving.

“It is an authentic ritual and expression of our society that distinguishes us from the rest of the world,” says Gian Marco Centinaio, at the Ministry of Agriculture, according to The Guardian.

A true espresso should have a "round, rich and velvety" taste and the foam, which should remain for at least 120 seconds, should range in shades from hazelnut to dark brown with lighter reflections, according to the Italian Espresso Institute.

Italy already has a number of traditions and customs on the list, such as Neapolitan pizzas and classical violin making in Cremona. Whether espresso will join them will be decided this spring. Source:TT