Czech Republic

The Czech Republic boasts a vibrant and long-standing tradition of puppetry, particularly marionettes. In 2016, Czech and Slovak puppet theatre was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its cultural significance.

The practical soft contact lens was invented by Czech chemist Otto Wichterle in 1959. He famously developed the first hydrogel for lenses and even built the initial production machine using a children's building kit and a record player at home.

The Prague Astronomical Clock, or Orloj, is the world's third-oldest astronomical clock and the oldest one still in operation. Installed in 1410, it displays not only the time but also the position of the sun and moon, and various astronomical details.

Prague Castle isn't just a castle; it's a sprawling complex of palaces, churches, gardens, and defensive buildings. Recognized by the Guinness Book of Records, it spans over 70,000 square meters, showcasing over a thousand years of history.

The Czech Republic consistently holds the title for the highest per capita beer consumption worldwide. This deep-rooted tradition is celebrated, with beer often being cheaper than bottled water in many establishments.