Do you think you know everything about Europe? I always thought that I knew enough about its history and culture until I had a discussion with some friends where somewhat unexpected facts popped up. It reminded me that there is always something to learn about the places you know best. Europe has its own quirks and odd facts that don’t show up in travel guides.
Well, here are 12 fascinating facts about Europe that you likely never knew.
Featured Image Credit: Andrea Piacquadio /Pexels.com.
Oldest Republic in the World: San Marino
It is hardly likely that San Marino will come to your mind when planning a European trip; but it is the oldest republic in the world. San Marino has been a republic since it was founded by Saint Marinus and Christians in 301 AD. It is surrounded by Italy on all sides but San Marino has remained independent for centuries. This is an interesting spot for you to visit if history captivates you and you wish to explore the numerous ancient traditions this country still holds.
More than 900 Scottish Islands
Aren’t you surprised that Scotland has more than 900 islands? Okay, you all might have heard about the famous Isle of Skye or Orkneys, but there are hundreds more out here (including probably 100 inhabited islands). Each of these islands has a beauty and a history unique to it. The Scottish islands also have some of the best hiking trails & wild camping sites in Europe, perfect for nature lovers and those who love remote escapes.
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There’s a Town in Norway Where It’s Illegal to Die
I mean, this one sounds like something out of a mystery novel but it is illegal to die in the town of Longyearbyen on Norway’s Svalbard Islands. Due to the freezing climate, which prevents bodies from decomposing, it is not allowed to bury people there. If you are seriously ill they send you back to the mainland so that your last hours all happen there.
Luxembourg is the World’s Only Grand Duchy
When you think of European royalty, it is usually Kings and Queens, but Luxembourg has a Grand Duke and therefore the only country that can call itself a ‘Grand Duchy’. It is a tiny country nestled between Belgium, France, and Germany – Luxembourg has a royal heritage unlike anywhere else in Europe with centuries of thrilling tales to go behind it.
Iceland Has No Mosquitoes
Iceland is famous for its stunning natural beauty but did you know that it is totally mosquito-free? The hypothesis is that the region experiences too cold, unpredictable weather conditions to sustain large populations of mosquitoes. If you suffer from itchy mosquito bites like I do, then Iceland is the place to be.
The Czech Republic Consumes the Most Beer Per Capita
Most people go straight to Germany and their Oktoberfest, but in actual fact the Czech Republic drinks the most beer. Beer is not just part of Czech culture; For locals, it’s a sense of pride to craft beer. You will find out that it is actually cheaper than water in some places and you’ll see hundreds of beer gardens where locals go to have a stein.
The Whole of Liechtenstein is For Rent For a Day
Liechtenstein used to rent out its entire country and I had no idea this was even an option. This significantly less popular European country could actually be rented out for a private function – if you were willing to pay around $70 k/day. They even personalized the street signs for you.
Finland Has the Most Saunas Per Capita
Finnish people surely have a unique attachment to their saunas. With around 5.5 million inhabitants, there are more than 3 million Saunas in Finland — making it the country with the most saunas (more saunas than cars). In Finland, there are saunas all over — in people’s homes, businesses, and even government buildings. They are a big part of Finnish culture, not only as a pastime but also for socializing.
Montenegro Means ‘Black Mountain’
Montenegro literally means “Black Mountain” and the reason for that becomes apparent immediately when you come as a tourist here. The island is mostly dark mountain ridges that look as though they go plunging into the ocean. The name is derived from how densely forested and dark these mountain summits appear, thus providing for its dramatic, eerie façade.
Estonia is a Digital Society
Estonia is considered the most digital society in the world and for being a country at the forefront of digitization, they are eager to promote that. Isn’t it surprising to know that in such a small country as Estonia, it is possible for citizens to vote, pay taxes, and sign documents online? It is one of the most tech-savvy nations on earth, and its e-residency program extends this digitality to anyone in the world who wants to be a resident digitally.
Andorra Has No National Bank
Andorra is a tiny, rich country sandwiched between France and Spain, but there are no national banks here. The country uses the Euro, even though it is not a member of the EU. The economy of Andorra is primarily based on tourism and the banking sector, with its status as a tax haven lending it an appearance that sets it apart from most other places along our route.
The Eiffel Tower Grows in Summer
Does anybody else know that the Eiffel Tower grows in the summertime? The iron used to build the tower expands in the heat, causing it to grow anywhere between an extra 3 and 6 inches taller when basking in summer’s sun.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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