This dark and romantic 14th century medieval sandstone bridge crosses the Vltava River and connects Prague’s Old Town with the Lesser Town (also known as Malá Strana). The bridge is framed at each end by Gothic towers and offers wonderful views of Prague Castle and down the banks of the river.

Construction began in 1357, with the intention of replacing the Judith Bridge which had been severely damaged by floods in 1342. Originally referred to as Stone Bridge and Prague Bridge the work was carried out under the specific instructions of the Czech King and Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV who is thought to have laid the foundation stone himself. The design was overseen by the city’s favourite architect Peter Parler and was completed in 1402; since 1870 it has been known as the Charles Bridge.

The overpass was originally constructed for chivalrous knight tournaments with little decoration, it wasn’t until the 1600’s when the Catholic love for ornamentation led to the 30 beautiful Baroque statues and sculptures of saints being installed. It is said they represent the great personalities of both European and global history, who it was believed had moved the world or changed it for the better. Unfortunately, many of the sculptures have now been replaced by replicas due to damage which has occurred over the years, however many of the originals can still be seen in the Lapidary of the National Museum in Prague.

Close examination of these sculptures will reveal many different dark carvings such a devils, skulls, snakes and scenes of murder. One of my favourite pieces was the crowned skull which is situated towards the middle of the bridge on your left-hand side (if you are looking in the direction of the Lesser Town).

The most famous statue is that of St John of Nepomuk who was a Czech martyr executed for his beliefs before being thrown from the bridge into the river. This occurred in 1683 during the reign of Wenceslas IV. According to legend if you touch the plaque on his statue, it will bring good luck and ensure your return to Prague. Also look out for the old lattice which commemorates the exact location from which his body was thrown. 

The 515m long bridge has been included as an UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site and interestingly there are many stories about egg yolks, milk, beer, wine and even blood being mixed into the mortar to strengthen the construction of the bridge.

I would highly recommend either visiting early in the morning or when the sun goes down, as the bridge holds an even more moody and mystical aura at night when the gas lamps are lit!

You can also climb both the Old Town Bridge Tower or the Lesser Bridge Tower where you will be rewarded with stunning views. I personally climbed the Lesser Tower but would recommend the Old Town Tower from which you can admire the picturesque cityscape including the vast Prague Castle atop of the hill.