
Charles Bridge is a historic stone bridge in Prague over the Vltava River. The bridge was built by order of Emperor Charles IV, and is one of the most famous monuments in the Czech Republic.
The Charles Bridge is not only the oldest standing bridge over the Vltava River in Prague, but also one of the most important symbols of the city and the Czech Republic, making it a popular place for tourists and locals to enjoy its beauty and views of the Vltava River.
Charles Bridge – the heart of old Prague
The bridge is admired not only for its rich history, but also for the beautiful Gothic architecture and Baroque statues that adorn it.
The construction of the stone bridge began in 1357 under the auspices of Emperor Charles IV and was completed in 1402.It is 516 metres long and 9.5 metres wide. For many centuries the bridge was the only way to cross the Vltava River and was of great importance for trade and the life of the city. Thanks to the stone bridge, Prague became an important stop on the European trade routes.
The bridge is a typical example of Gothic architecture with massive pillars and arches. Since the end of the 17th century, 30 mostly Baroque statues and sculptures were gradually placed on the bridge. Originally it was called just “stone” or “Prague”. The name “Charles Bridge” was not adopted until around 1870.
Charles Bridge connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town and is complemented by three entrance towers: the larger and smaller Lesser Town Bridge Tower on the Lesser Town side and the Old Town Bridge Tower on the Old Town side.
History of Charles Bridge
- Foundation: the foundation stone of the bridge was laid in 1357 on the order of Charles IV.
- Construction: the construction took almost half a century and was completed in the 15th century.
- Modifications: the bridge has been damaged and repaired several times over the centuries. The most significant modifications were made in the Baroque period, when it was decorated with statues.
- Importance: the bridge was for many centuries the only way across the Vltava River and was of great importance for trade and the life of the city.
Architecture and statues on the Charles Bridge
- Gothic architecture: the bridge is a typical example of Gothic architecture with massive pillars and arches.
- Baroque statues: the greatest decoration of the bridge are the Baroque statues of saints, which were placed on the bridge in the 18th century. One of the most famous is the statue of St. John of Nepomuk.
Today’s significance of Charles Bridge
- Tourism: today Charles Bridge is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Prague.
- Symbol of the city: It is the symbol of Prague and often appears on postcards, posters and other promotional materials.
- Cultural heritage: it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Attractions of Charles Bridge
- The legend of St. John of Nepomuk: According to legend, St. John of Nepomuk was thrown off the bridge into the Vltava River. His statue is the most famous on the Charles Bridge and is a popular place for coin tossing.
- Prohibition of motor vehicles: Motor traffic has been prohibited on the bridge since 1965.
- Artists: Street artists often perform on the bridge, creating a pleasant atmosphere.
Charles Bridge is not only an architectural gem, but also a place rich in history and legends. It is a place that no one should miss when visiting Prague.
Boat trip on the Vltava River to the Charles Bridge
Boating on the Vltava River is one of the most romantic and magical experiences Prague has to offer. As soon as the boat starts its journey, the city begins to reveal itself to you from a whole new perspective. The quiet splash of the water and the leisurely pace of the cruise will completely engulf you.
When you approach the Charles Bridge, the view is like something out of a fairy tale. The Gothic towers of the bridge tower high above the river and the medieval statues lining the bridge seem to tell stories of times gone by. If it is early evening, the sun’s rays tint the bridge and the surrounding historic buildings in golden tones, while their reflection dances on the surface of the Vltava.
The view of Charles Bridge from the ship will captivate you with its majesty and timeless beauty. Feel how history and the present are intertwined. The surrounding panorama, including Prague Castle, Lesser Town and the Old Town, confirms that you are in one of the most beautiful places in the world. It is a moment when time stands still and you just silently admire the charm of Prague.
Discover the beauties of Prague from the deck of a boat
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2-hour boat cruise through Prague with LUNCH & welcome drink
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1-hour SIGHTSEEING cruise through the historic heart of Prague
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Prague night cruise with DINNER, music & welcome drink (8pm)
Where is Charles Bridge?
Charles Bridge is located in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. It connects the Old Town and Lesser Town across the Vltava River. On the Old Town side it starts at the Old Town Bridge Tower, while on the Lesser Town side it connects to the Lesser Town Bridge Tower.
The bridge is situated in the very historical centre of Prague and is one of its most famous monuments. Thanks to its central location, it is easily accessible on foot from most of Prague’s major sites, such as Old Town Square, Prague Castle or Kampa.