Beer itself was invented in Mesopotamia over 7,000 years ago. But the most consumed beer style in the world, the blonde lager or Pilsner, was invented in Plzen (Czech Republic) in 1842 by the Bavarian master brewer Josef Groll.

Why is the Czech Republic famous for beer?

Because it invented the Pilsner style (1842), it has the highest per capita consumption in the world (~185 litres/person/year), it produces some of the world's benchmark brands (Pilsner Urquell, Budvar) and it has a historically rooted pub culture.

What is tankove pivo?

It is unpasteurised beer served directly from the fermentation tank. It only exists in establishments that have the tank installed. It is the freshest possible beer experience and a speciality that can only be had at the source.

What is the difference between Pilsner Urquell and Czech Budweiser?

Pilsner Urquell is from Plzen, where the Pilsner style was born in 1842. Budvar is from Ceske Budejovice and has a medieval brewing history. They are two different beers, from different cities, with different flavour profiles.

Where to drink good beer in Prague without paying tourist prices?

By moving away from the immediate tourist circuit (Old Town Square, Charles Bridge). Look for pubs serving Uneticke, Bernard or Zichovec, they tend to be more local establishments. The indicative price in a neighbourhood pub: 40-60 CZK per 0.5l. If you want to learn more about the culture and history of Bohemia that gives beer its meaning: The Czech Republic: history, culture and curiosities. Beer pairs perfectly with traditional Czech food. And to experience beer culture at night: Prague by night.

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Who Invented Beer? The Czech Story That Changed the World

The history of Pilsner and Czech beer culture explained

Ion López Bidaguren

Art historian and licensed tour guide with over 17 years in tourism. Former educator at the Guggenheim Bilbao, guiding in Prague for 10+ years in Spanish, English and Italian.

March 11, 2026 · 7 min read

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