Cinnamon has been a prized spice for millennia, with a history that spans across ancient civilizations and global trade routes. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where it was highly valued not only for its culinary uses but also for its role in embalming and as a perfume. Traders guarded the secret of its source for centuries, telling mythical stories of cinnamon birds and remote lands to maintain their monopoly. The spice was so precious that it was often used as a form of currency and a gift fit for monarchs. Later, as maritime trade expanded, the Portuguese, Dutch, and British all vied for control of the cinnamon trade, establishing colonies in Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka) where the highest-quality cinnamon, Cinnamomum verum, was cultivated. Today, cinnamon continues to be a staple in kitchens worldwide, celebrated for its unique flavor, versatility, and health benefits.
