A bit off-topic, which wire size and circuit breaker rating should one typically expect in an European home, for example for a branch line feeding CEE 7/3 (Schuko) 16A socket? I think something like 3x1.5mm2 NYM cable and C16 breaker, but not 100% sure.

Here for wiring inside walls on a B16 you need to use 2.5mm^2. And B16 is maximum allowed for wall sockets.
1.5mm^2 is allowed only on power cords in free air.

C16 would require at least 4mm^2, but that is at this moment my guess (did not check the characteristics).
The "B" characteristic is the only directly rated for wiring protection here, "C" or "D" could be used only if derated so their characteristic is within the envelope of the formally rated "B" protection. So if I remember well, with C it means 1 rating step down (so a C20 could be used instead for wiring formally rated for B16), D is 2 steps down (so D6 with a B16 rated wiring). But not 100% sure now if this derating is correct, you need to check the characteristics.
This replacement makes sense only if you intend to protect other things than just the wiring (like a transformer, ballast or a motor or so) by that lower current rating.

B10 would be the maximum breaker for 1.5mm^2.

Medved, thanks!

From your reply and from some googling I got the idea that in Europe it is mostly common to feed schuko style CEE receptacles with 1.5 mm2 wire and have 10A breakers. Some circuits for kitchen for example where higher load is expected are wired with 2.5mm2 and 16A breaker. In Europe B-type breakers are preferred, and for some reason, here in ex-USSR, C-types are used everywhere. Also, when money is not the reason, people tend to choose 2.5mm2 cable, although in many places this is an overkill, and thick wire is hard to mount.

If I remember right C and B type breakers have different required short circuit current that the wiring has to be able to deliver to ensure required cut out time. So if the cables are long or short circuit current is otherwise too low one might havento use B type.