Our compatriots love the Czech Republic above all for its delicious beer, fabulous architecture, and the hospitality of the locals. And prices here are lower than in most European countries. But tourists don’t even realize what truly surprises it has.

1. Prague was not damaged in either World War I or World War II, which is why its architectural ensemble is so well preserved. Residents of the historic center are prohibited from installing plastic windows, air conditioners, and television antennas so as not to spoil the city’s appearance.

2. The Czech Republic ranks third after France and Belgium in the number of castles, with about 2,000.

3. In terms of income, the Czech Republic ranks second in Eastern Europe after Slovenia.

4. The astronomical clock in Old Town Square is the oldest of its kind in the world, dating back to 1410.

5. Charles University in Prague is the oldest in Eastern Europe, built in 1348. It is now considered one of the most prestigious universities in the region.

6. The Czech Republic has the highest per capita beer consumption in the world – over 160 liters per year! Germans, in second place, drink an average of 130 liters per person per year.

7. The automotive industry is also highly developed – the Czech Republic leads Central Europe in car production. Locals prefer Škoda cars; almost 80% of Czechs drive them.

8. The divorce rate in the Czech Republic is high – 45% of couples separate, and 77% of children live with one parent.

9. Czechs always cook carp for Christmas dinner.

10. Tourism is one of the country’s main sources of income. Prague consistently ranks among the top 10 most visited European cities, and 1% of the population works in the tourism industry.