Charles Bridge

Prague, Czech Republic

The Charles Bridge is a famous historic bridge that crosses the Vltava river in Prague. Its construction started in 1357 under the auspices of King Charles IV, and finished in the beginning of the 15th century. The bridge replaced the old Judith Bridge built 1158–1172 that had been badly damaged by a flood in 1342. This new bridge was originally called the Stone Bridge (Kamenný most) or the Prague Bridge (Pražský most) but has been the 'Charles Bridge' since 1870. As the only means of crossing the river Vltava until 1841, the Charles Bridge was the most important connection between Prague Castle and the city's Old Town and adjacent areas. This 'solid-land' connection made Prague important as a trade route between Eastern and Western Europe.

The bridge is 621 metres long and nearly 10 metres wide, resting on 16 arches shielded by ice guards. It is protected by three bridge towers, two of them on the Lesser Quarter side and the third one on the Old Town side. The Old Town bridge tower is often considered to be one of the most astonishing civil gothic-style buildings in the world. The bridge is decorated by a continuous alley of 30 statues and statuaries, most of them baroque-style, originally erected around 1700 but now all replaced by replicas.

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Founded: 1357
Category: Miscellaneous historic sites in Czech Republic

Rating

4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

CP T (2 years ago)
Like the old town square, this is a bit of a “must visit” when in Prague. Read up on the history of the bridge a little bit before going to walk over it and you’ll understand a bit more of it’s significance. Not too many days of the year when it is not packed full of tourists, but it is still worth a crossing. Nice to see the artists and other local hands selling their wares here still. I crossed this bridge first time back in 2008 and it’s still got it! Be sure to stop and take in the views of the gates and the river as it is easy to get swept up in the wandering crowds.
Anita Walkowska (2 years ago)
Great location, one of my favourite places in Prague. In a sunny day a view over the river is simply stunning ? Despite the years passing by, one thing never change - the bridge it's always fully packed with tourists! ? I think I'm yet to witness it empty... perhaps during a romantic night ??
Valentino Tartamella (2 years ago)
Beautiful bridge near the center of town that is worth to cross even if it is out of your way. As I showed in the attached images, the bridge features breathtaking views and dozens of statues along the way, connecting to urban centers of the city that make the bridge useful and accessible. It will take 5 minutes of your time and I guarantee it will be worth it. Enjoy your time!
Megan Gaunt (2 years ago)
I loved being able to walk across the bridge! There were so many great views of Prague, and the bridge was full of local artists and musicians showcasing their work. They are in the process of revitalizing the statues, which was incredible to see when comparing the older ones to the newer ones. Like the rest of the city, my only regret was not being able to spend more time exploring! If I am ever able to return to Prague, I plan to return ❤️
Lee Ivan (2 years ago)
Absolutely good looking, many will agree the most beautiful old fashion bridge ever. Every single sculpture, statutes on the bridge are individual piece of art. When near sunset, the rivers with some boats, pigeons, view is absolutely stunning. Unfortunately the crowd is insane, rough estimate there are thousands of tourist on the bridge at the same time ALL the day time.
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