What Is Pivo in Prague?

By Michael Ferguson

What Is Pivo in Prague?

When you visit Prague, one thing you will notice is the locals’ love for pivo. But what exactly is pivo?

Well, pivo is the Czech word for beer. It’s no secret that beer holds a special place in Czech culture and history. In fact, the Czech Republic has one of the highest per capita consumption rates of beer in the world.

The Brewing Tradition

Czechs take their brewing seriously. The country has a long and proud tradition of brewing dating back centuries. The art of brewing has been passed down through generations, resulting in some of the finest beers you can find.

The Pilsner Urquell Brewery

One of the most famous breweries in Prague is the Pilsner Urquell Brewery. Established in 1842, this brewery gave birth to the Pilsner style of beer. Today, Pilsner Urquell is considered a benchmark for quality and taste.

Types of Beer

Pivo comes in various styles and flavors to cater to different tastes. Here are some popular types:

  • Pale Lager: This is the most common type of pivo you’ll find in Prague. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot summer day.
  • Darker Lagers: If you prefer something with more maltiness and depth, try a darker lager like Dunkel or Vienna Lager.
  • Wheat Beer: If you’re a fan of wheat beers, you’re in luck! Prague offers delicious wheat beers with their unique flavors and aromas.

Pivo Culture in Prague

Pivo is more than just a drink in Prague; it’s a way of life. The locals take immense pride in their beer and enjoy it in several different ways:

  • Beer Gardens: Prague is famous for its beautiful beer gardens, where you can enjoy a cold pivo while surrounded by nature.
  • Beer Halls: If you prefer a lively atmosphere, head to one of the city’s beer halls. Here, you can socialize with friends, listen to live music, and enjoy traditional Czech cuisine alongside your pivo.
  • Brewery Tours: To truly immerse yourself in the world of Czech beer, take a brewery tour. You’ll learn about the brewing process, taste different beers, and gain a deeper appreciation for pivo.

The Perfect Pint

To fully experience pivo in Prague, it’s essential to know how to pour the perfect pint. Here are some steps to follow:

  1. Clean Glass: Start with a clean glass to ensure no residue affects the taste of your pivo.
  2. Tilted Pour: Hold the glass at an angle and pour slowly until it’s halfway full.
  3. Straighten Up: As you reach the halfway point, straighten the glass and continue pouring until it’s full.
  4. Foamy Head: A good pint of pivo should have a thick foamy head. Aim for about two fingers’ worth of foam on top.
  5. Enjoy: Now that you have a perfectly poured pint, it’s time to savor and enjoy the flavors of Czech pivo.

So, next time you find yourself in Prague, embrace the pivo culture and indulge in the rich history and flavors of Czech beer. Na zdraví!