July 7 is World Chocolate Day. A special day set aside to pay homage to the noble cacao bean and all the beautiful flavours it brings.

To celebrate the 400th anniversary of the arrival of chocolate in France, LaPoste issued this series of chocolate scented stamps in 2009.

 

The clever set  was designed by P.A. Cousin.

 

The origins of World Chocolate Day are steeped in history and tradition. This annual celebration commemorates the day in 1550 when chocolate was believed to have been introduced to Europe. Spanish explorers brought cacao beans from the Americas, forever transforming the culinary landscape of the continent.

Initially consumed as a bitter beverage by the ancient Aztecs and Mayans, cacao became a luxurious treat when combined with sugar and milk. Over centuries, chocolate evolved from an exotic rarity to an accessible treat enjoyed worldwide. World Chocolate Day was created to honour this journey and recognize chocolate’s profound cultural and economic impact. It also serves as an opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship of chocolatiers and the hard work of cacao farmers.
World Chocolate Day: A Global Celebration of Sweet Delight