10 facts about the culture of drinking in Russia

• 10 facts about the culture of drinking in Russia

1. The Slavs did not use spirits, even during feasts.

2. Slavic mead was a popular drink, but its strength is from 5 to 16 degrees. That is not stronger than wine.

3. The word "alcohol" is of Arabic origin, pronounced as "Al Khola" and means "cosmetic paint".

4. The first attempts of import of vodka to Russia were made by Europeans in the 15th century.

5. Neither rum or other alcoholic drinks do not take root in Russia, until the time of Peter I.

6. The name of Peter I, establishing contacts with Europeans, ordered to import alcohol in large quantities and to accompany the feast of alcohol.

7. The visiting foreigners often wondered why so few Russian taverns, where you can drink.

8. At the end of the 16th century in Velikiy Novgorod was only one pub in the whole city, and he was covered with the king at the request of residents.

9. Only in the mid-17th century Russian became "accustomed" to the taverns - the state has realized that a good tax can be collected from alcohol.

10. There are several theories about the origin of the word "vodka", which has been known since the 17th century. Some believe that the word "vodka" comes from the word "water", the other - from the word "drive". However, the Poles think that they have come up with the word. Denis Russian, especially for our website