Charles Bridge

Overview

Charles Bridge is a 14th-century stone bridge connecting Old Town to Malá Strana across the Vltava, lined with 30 Baroque statues of saints. It's Prague's most iconic landmark and a masterpiece of medieval engineering.

Highlights

• 30 statues: Baroque sculptures added from 1683, including the popular St. John of Nepomuk (touch the bronze plaque for good luck).
• Bridge towers: Both the Old Town and Malá Strana towers offer superb views (climbable).
• Sunrise: The bridge at dawn, empty of crowds, is Prague's most magical experience.

History

Commissioned by Charles IV in 1357, the bridge was designed by Peter Parler and completed in the early 1400s. Its foundation stone was laid on 9 July 1357 at 5:31 AM—the precise date chosen for its astrological significance.

Visitor Tips

• Sunrise visit: Arrive before 06:00 for photos without crowds.
• Walk both directions: The views change dramatically depending on the light.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.