5 inconspicuous facts about Europe

As bizarre as this sounds, it is true. In 1004, when Maria Argyropoulina―the Greek niece of Byzantine Emperor Basil II―arrived for a state dinner in Venice, she brought out a case of golden forks. This was a strange sight to the people of Venice because they had never seen anything like it before.

The local clergy condemned her for using forks at the wedding feast. They claimed that using metal forks was insulting to God since he gave us fingers. If any of them were to transmigrate into the 21st century, we’re sure they will be shocked to see that metal forks are a thing now.

Although this one strikes a moment of surprise as it seems unbelievable, it's true. Right now, when people think of heels, they think of women in general. A long time ago, men who were considered to have a high standing in society wore heels. Even more shocking, the king of France and members of his court wore red bottoms!

In the 1600s, women started adopting men's fashion and heels were part of the things they adopted. It became a unisex trend and worked its way into being exclusively for women today. While it may sound really funny, we all can imagine any modern-day politician in 1600 on a pair of stilettos that they would have to wear due to their status. Would be a sight to behold!

Studies in 2020 revealed that one in three European women have progesterone receptors which is a gene variant we inherited from Neanderthals. This is because the old Europeans interbred with Neanderthals.

Sounds weird, right? The gene is said to be associated with increased fertility, and fewer miscarriages. You should have your genes examined, who knows, you just might have a primitive man or woman as a member.

Germans are known for their love for beer, and sausages. They have over 1500 different types of sausages. Their favorite has to be the currywurst because they eat about 800 million of it annually!

If you don't know what currywurst is, it's this delicious goodness of pork sausage mixed with curry and ketchup. It's a popular street food in Germany. When you pay a visit there, be sure to try out currywurst and tell us what all the fuss is about it.

Whenever we watch old English movies set in medieval times, we get to see the bravery of knights and how respected they were. We're not in medieval times anymore, but knights are still a big deal. Monarchs knight people these days based on their good works, service to the community, and for whatever reasons they see fit. No one can question that.

The thought of meeting a knighted penguin in Norway will impress you. He is Sir Nils Olav and was knighted by King Harald V of Norway in 2008. The knighthood has been passed down in this family. In fact, current Sir Nils Olav is the third of his name. At least, we now know that it’s not only the Lions who get to be ceremoniously called the King of the animals.