Charles Bridge, Prague — Visitor Guide & Things to Do Nearby

Charles Bridge is Prague's most iconic landmark, a 516-metre stone bridge lined with 30 Baroque statues connecting the Old Town to the Lesser Town (Mala Strana) across the Vltava River. Construction began on July 9, 1357, on the orders of King Charles IV. The timing was no accident. Charles, who believed in numerology and astrology, chose the exact moment: 5:31 AM. Written out, the date and time form a palindrome: 1-3-5-7-9-7-5-3-1. He believed this would give the bridge supernatural strength. The bridge was designed by Peter Parler and completed around 1402. For nearly 500 years, it was the only way to cross the Vltava in Prague. The bridge's 16 sandstone arches have survived floods (including major ones in 1784 and 1890), wars, and centuries of foot traffic. It served as the main connection between Prague Castle and the Old Town until 1841. The 30 statues and statuaries were mostly added around 1700. The most famous is the statue of St John of Nepomuk, who was thrown from the bridge in 1393 on the orders of King Wenceslas IV. Touching the bronze plaque at the base of his statue is said to bring good luck and ensure your return to Prague. The bridge is free to cross and accessible 24 hours a day. The Old Town Bridge Tower offers stunning views for a small fee. For the best experience, visit at sunrise or after 10pm, when the crowds thin out. On a Questo quest through Prague, Charles Bridge is a stop where superstition, art, and engineering meet in one of Europe's most beautiful crossings.