From the special reporter “Vijesti”

For Germans, the city of Pilsen remains just that. It’s interesting to note that in many countries, when people mention pils or pilsner, they are referring to beer. Thus, it’s easy to see why this city is significant, especially as it hosts the most crucial match of the World Cup qualifiers tonight for the Montenegrin football team.

Pilsen beer, or “Pilsner Urquell,” has gained global fame, yet the city near the German border offers much more.

Plzeň is synonymous with Škoda, renowned for its captivating architecture, rich culture, and sporting spirit…

Nevertheless, as suggested by its name, beer remains the main attraction.

Brewing since 1842.

What makes Pilsen beer stand out? It is recognized as the world’s first light beer, crafted in 1842 by Josef Grol, a Czech brewer originally from Bavaria.

Pilsner Urquell rapidly inspired brewers worldwide; today, over 90 percent of beers consumed globally fall under the “pilsner” category or its variations.

Despite the city’s efforts to preserve the uniqueness of their beer, production still takes place in the very same factory where the initial batches were brewed over 180 years ago.

A critical factor behind this continuity is the quality of the water sourced beneath the factory.

Škoda: Beyond Automobiles

Just 17 years after the debut of “Pilsner Urquell,” Škoda was established in Plzeň, originally as a machinery factory, and is now best known for its automotive production.

The founder, Emil Škoda, started by manufacturing an array of products, including locomotives, weapons, turbines, and marine engines…

Notably, when car production commenced in 1925, Škoda relocated from Plzeň to Mlada Boleslav.

Cultural and Architectural Highlights

With a population nearing 190,000, the city proudly shares that in 2015, it was named the European Capital of Culture alongside Belgian Mons.

Plzeň boasts theaters, museums, festivals, and classical music…

The city’s architecture adds to its allure, with the “Namesti republiky” or Republic Square being particularly notable, as it’s one of the largest medieval squares in the Czech Republic.

At its center stands the stunning St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, erected in the late 13th century, featuring the tallest tower in the Czech Republic at 102 meters.

The Gothic cathedral is embraced by colorful buildings that enhance the area’s atmosphere, giving Plzeň a distinctive character.

Sports: Football, Hockey, and More

Viktoria, a football club, is a source of pride for the city. Celebrating its centenary in 2011, the club achieved its first Czech Republic championship following which it claimed the title five additional times, participating in the Champions League four times and the Europa League seven times.

The giants of Prague, Slavia and Sparta, have had to adapt to their less dominant position.

Additionally, the hockey club Škoda proudly held the title of Czech Republic champion in 2013. However, when most think of sports and Plzeň, the first name that often comes to mind is Petr Čech.

Recognized as one of the greatest goalkeepers, known for his protective helmet, he began his career with Viktoria as a young striker.

His renown expanded through his time at Sparta Prague, Rennes, and particularly during his tenure at Chelsea, where he set numerous records and led the club to its first European title in 2012.

Alongside Čech, Filip Jiha, the legendary handball player who achieved greatness in the Kilo jersey and was named the world’s best player in 2010, stands out as another city icon.

So, is Plzeň merely a city of beer?

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