German Beer Steins

Have a 'guten tag' with one of these iconic vessels

German beer steins are instantly recognizable across the world as one of Deutschland's most prominent cultural symbols. With a history spanning over 600 years, German beer steins new and old are collected by teetotalers and beer enthusiasts alike.

How the stein came to be

When the bubonic plague wiped out one-third of Europe's population in the 1300s, societal interest in hygiene was renewed. Following the massive fly infestation in mid-1500s Europe, laws were passed in the principalities that became Germany to require covers on all eating and drinking vessels. The search was on for ways to easily introduce more cleanliness into daily life, and so the lidded stein -- which could be uncovered and drunk from with the same hand -- was born. Porous earthenware soon gave way to more durable stoneware, and while stoneware mugs with pewter lids remained the standard through the end of the 18th century, wealthier Europeans drank from steins made of porcelain and silver.

German beer steins today

Glassware, a thrifty alternative to stoneware, became popular in the crafting of German beer steins in the early 1800s. Since then, German beer steins have evolved from practical necessity to become wildly popular souvenirs. Most steins today are simply adorned with brewery logos, and have a half-liter capacity. However, no longer tethered to the need for simple sanitation, many steins have grown increasingly decorative and, in some cases, outright impractical. The world's largest beer stein, which can hold a whopping 8.45 gallons of beer, can be found in St. Goar, Germany.

German beer steins are a timeless combination of form and function, perfect for enjoying a hearty mug of lager or simply adding a touch of European tradition to your decor.