Angelo Moriondo patents an espresso machine

Background. Angelo Moriondo was an Italian inventor recognized for creating an espresso machine in 1884. His device combined steam and boiling water to brew coffee efficiently. Unlike later machines, Moriondo's invention was a bulk brewer, not designed for individual customers. Historian Ian Bersten describes it as the first Italian bar machine controlling steam and water separately, marking Moriondo as one of the earliest discoverers of the espresso machine.

Patent Details. Moriondo's patent was awarded on 16 May 1884 for a period of six years. The title was "New steam machinery for the economic and instantaneous confection of coffee beverage, method ‘A. Moriondo’". The machine was built by a mechanic named Martina under Moriondo's supervision. This patent was later updated on 20 November 1884 and registered internationally in Paris on 23 October 1885.

Exhibition and Recognition. Moriondo presented his invention at the General Expo of Turin in 1884, where it was awarded a bronze medal. The device is described as "almost certainly the first Italian bar machine that controlled the supply of steam and water separately through the coffee". Moriondo is considered "certainly one of the earliest discoverers of the expresso machine, if not the earliest".