Prague, the beautiful capital city of the Czech Republic, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and delicious cuisine. However, there is one thing that stands out above all else when it comes to Prague – its beer.
In fact, many people consider Prague to be the beer capital of the world. But is this really true? Let’s take a closer look.
A Brief History of Beer in Prague
Beer has been a part of Czech culture for centuries. The first brewery in the country was founded in 993 AD by monks at the Břevnov Monastery in Prague. Since then, brewing has become an integral part of Czech life and culture.
In Prague specifically, beer has played an important role in shaping the city’s history. During the Middle Ages, many breweries were located within the city walls and beer was considered safer to drink than water due to poor sanitation practices. The first pub in Prague opened in 1499 and since then, drinking establishments have been an essential part of the city’s social scene.
The Quality of Beer in Prague
One reason why many people consider Prague to be the beer capital of the world is because of the high quality of its beer. Czechs take their brewing seriously and use only natural ingredients like hops and barley. They also use soft water with low mineral content which allows for a clean taste without any bitterness.
There are many breweries throughout Prague that produce excellent beer including Pilsner Urquell, Staropramen, and Krušovice to name just a few. These breweries have been producing high-quality beer for generations and continue to do so today.
The Variety of Beer in Prague
Another reason why Prague is considered to be the beer capital of the world is because of its wide variety of beers. From light lagers to dark porters, Prague has it all. In fact, there are over 70 different types of beer produced in the Czech Republic.
One of the most popular types of beer in Prague is Pilsner. This light lager was first brewed in the city of Pilsen in western Bohemia and has since become a staple throughout the country. Other popular beers include Kozel Dark, Radegast, and Bernard.
The Culture of Beer in Prague
Perhaps the most compelling reason why Prague is considered to be the beer capital of the world is because of its beer culture. Drinking beer is an integral part of Czech social life and there are many customs and traditions associated with it.
For example, when ordering a beer at a pub in Prague, it’s customary to raise your glass and say “Na Zdraví!” which means “Cheers!”
in Czech. It’s also traditional to order a plate of snacks like pickled sausage or cheese to go along with your beer.
In addition to these customs, there are also many festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate beer. The most famous of these is the Czech Beer Festival which takes place every May in Prague. This festival features over 150 different types of beers from breweries all across the country.
Conclusion
So, is Prague really the beer capital of the world? While this may be subjective, there is no denying that Prague has a rich history, a high quality and wide variety of beers, and a vibrant beer culture that sets it apart from other cities around the world.
Whether you’re a serious beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out with friends, Prague is definitely worth a visit for its incredible beer scene. Na zdraví!