Poland: Interesting facts

Poland invites the inquisitive visitor with its mosaic of customs and triumphs; it is a land rich in history and full of fascinating quirks. This ninth-largest country in Europe, where the beloved dog friend is affectionately called “Burek,” reveals a wealth of interesting stories that vividly capture its distinctiveness.

Couples start the road of matrimony at a tender age unlike their European Union counterparts within the heart of Poland, where the echoes of young exuberance resound. With an outstanding list of 17 Nobel laureates, evidence of the country’s commitment to knowledge and invention, the intellectual ability of its people shines brilliantly. With an amazing 90% of the population having obtained at least a high school diploma, the Polish people have a strong ingrained passion for education.

With the revolutionary contributions of Nicolaus Copernicus, the astronomer who dared to question the accepted wisdom by suggesting the heliocentric model of the universe, Polish inventiveness has left its mark all around the world. From the celestial spheres to the gastronomic sphere, Poland’s unique character shows itself in surprising places. Adding ketchup to pizza, an apparently strange combination, exposes a playful attitude to cooking.

With more than a third of their 60 million strong population living outside of Poland, the Polish diaspora is evidence of the country’s ongoing resilience and vitality. Having seen 45 invasions and upheavals between 1600 and 1945, the annals of history testify to Poland’s relentless search of freedom. From the ground floor of the elevator designated as zero to the innovative Polish Constitution, the first of its kind in Europe and the second in the world, the unwavering spirit of the Polish people shows through in their customs and quirks.

Christmas in Poland is a celebration of beloved customs whereby the touching story of “Home Alone” graces television screens and brings families together in common laughter. With the practice of a single voice actor dubbing all roles in foreign films, so highlighting a remarkable vocal range, the world of movies takes on an unusual twist.

The beauty sector reflects Poland’s entrepreneurial energy; the famous Max Factor brand originated with visionary Maximilian Faktorovic. Poland is the top exporter of this valuable gemstone since the natural treasures of the country reach the glittering depths of amber.

The remarkable bravery of 16 Poles who risked their lives to save an estimated 450,000 Jews from the atrocities of the Holocaust is attested to in the annals of history, so attesting to the relentless strength of the human spirit. Remarkably flourishing in Poland, a reminder of its ongoing chivalry, the elegant custom of hand-kissing—a gesture of respect and decency—continues to flourish.

In the field of vexillology, a curious coincidence occurs whereby the Polish flag shares its design with those of Indonesia and Monaco, different only by their orientation. The biggest and most magnificent land mammals on Europe, 800 European bison find refuge in the primordial forests of Białowieża National Park, a refuge of biodiversity.

At the Wielowicz Salt Mine, one of the oldest in the world, the depths of the earth expose a subterranean paradise where millennia of salt extraction have sculpted an amazing labyrinth of chambers and chapels. Born Karol Wojtyła in Wadowice, Pope John Paul II holds a revered position in Poland’s collective memory and beats strong in her spiritual heart.

With its people drinking an amazing 92 liters per capita yearly, Poland’s vibrant beer culture reflects the convivial attitude of the country and helps to establish its third-largest beer-drinking ranking in Europe. Comprising 32 letters, each one a portal to a world of linguistic nuance and expression, the Polish language is evidence of the great cultural legacy of the country.

Poland’s mastery of vodka distillation, developed over 500 years, exceeds that of its Russian equivalent, evidence of its commitment to produce spirits of extraordinary excellence. Roman Catholicism has a great impact on Polish society, even down to a dedicated TV channel for the Pope.

Poland invites research and discovery; it is a land of fascinating contrasts and ongoing customs. Every person who visits its boundaries will be permanently changed by its complex tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauties.