Charles bridge prague

Charles Bridge in Prague is one of Europe's most iconic historic bridges, connecting the Old Town to the Lesser Quarter across the Vltava River.

About this subject

Charles Bridge, known in Czech as Karlův most, is a gothic stone bridge crossing the Vltava River in Prague, Czech Republic. Its construction began in 1357 under Emperor Charles IV, who commissioned architect Petr Parléř to design it. The bridge replaced the older Judith Bridge, which was destroyed by a flood in 1342. It measures 516 meters in length and nearly 10 meters in width, supported by 16 arches protected by stone pillars. For centuries, it was the only connection between the Old Town and Prague Castle, vital for trade and royal processions.

The structure is renowned for its 30 baroque statues lining the parapets, most installed between 1683 and 1714. They depict saints and religious figures, such as Saint John of Nepomuk, who was allegedly thrown from the bridge in 1383 on the orders of King Wenceslaus IV. A local tradition holds that touching the bronze statue of Saint John of Nepomuk brings good luck. The bridge also hosted jousting tournaments and royal parades. Today it is pedestrian-only, attracting thousands of tourists and street performers daily.

Technically, Charles Bridge has withstood centuries of floods and conflicts, though it suffered damage in historic floods, such as those of 1890 and 2002. The gothic towers at both ends, the Old Town Bridge Tower and the Lesser Quarter Bridge Tower, served as defensive gates. The Old Town Bridge Tower offers panoramic views and features relief carvings, including a depiction of Emperor Charles IV. The bridge is illuminated at night by gas lamps, creating a romantic atmosphere that has inspired countless artists and filmmakers.

Charles Bridge is a national symbol of the Czech Republic and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992 as part of the Historic Centre of Prague. Its construction used sandstone and lime mortar, with wooden and stone foundations. Legend says eggs were added to the mortar to increase strength, but historians dispute this. Regardless of myths, the bridge remains a testament to medieval engineering and religious devotion.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is Charles Bridge?

Construction of Charles Bridge began in 1357, making it over 660 years old. It was completed in the early 15th century.

Why does Charles Bridge have so many statues?

The statues were installed during the Baroque period as an expression of Catholic faith and to inspire worshippers. They depict saints and patrons, with most added between the 17th and 18th centuries.

Is it true that eggs were used in the construction of the bridge?

According to a popular legend, eggs were mixed into the mortar to increase durability. However, historians and modern engineers consider this unlikely, as eggs would rot and weaken the structure.