Charles Bridge
Bridge in Prague
The Charles Bridge is not only one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks but also a remarkable feat of medieval engineering and symbolic storytelling. Commissioned by Emperor Charles IV, its construction began at the astrologically calculated moment of 5:31 AM on July 9, 1357—a palindrome date (135797531) chosen to ensure strength and harmony. The legend goes even further, with tales of unusual ingredients like eggs and wine mixed into the mortar to enhance durability. Whether these myths are fact or folklore, the bridge has stood for centuries, weathering floods, battles, and the passage of time.
Stretching 516 meters across the Vltava River and built on 16 arches, the bridge served for over four centuries as the primary crossing between Prague’s Old Town and the castle district. It was the only stone bridge in the city until the 19th century and played a vital role in trade, travel, and royal processions. In the 20th century, growing traffic made pedestrian-only access a necessity, and since 1978, the Charles Bridge has been a haven for walkers, artists, and street musicians rather than vehicles.
What makes Charles Bridge especially captivating is the collection of 30 Baroque statues that line its edges. Added between the late 1600s and early 1900s, these sculptures depict saints, biblical figures, and scenes that convey layers of religious and cultural meaning. Among the most notable are the bronze crucifix with Hebrew script, the dynamic composition of Saint Francis Xavier converting the “four corners of the world,” and Saint John of Nepomuk—whose legend says he was thrown from the bridge for refusing to reveal the queen’s confessions. Touching the relief beneath his statue is said to bring luck or guarantee a return trip to Prague.
Tips: To experience the bridge’s magic without the crowds, visit at sunrise when the city is still quiet and the statues catch the first golden light. Evenings also offer a more intimate atmosphere, especially with the lights of Prague Castle reflecting in the river. Take your time crossing—there are stories in every sculpture and breathtaking views in every direction.
The Charles Bridge appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
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Visiting Charles Bridge
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