Prague - Charles' bridge

That’s the other big highlight of Prague. Once you’ve seen the square and the clock, you can simply follow the crowd and soon enough you will reach the bridge.

Charles' bridge is the oldest bridge in Prague built in 1357-1402 or so, founded by Charles IV (thus the name). Both ends of the bridge are fortified with towers (the Lesser Town Bridge Towers, the Old Town Bridge Tower). From 1683 to 1928 30 sculptures and groups of statues of the saints were gradually set on the bridge piers.

The bridge starts and ends with a tower. The one of the side of the Old Town is much nicer than the one on the side of the castle: gothic style vs. plain style. Judge by yourself below.


The Old Town Bridge Tower:

Now let’s cross the river.

Left side:

On the bridge:

Right side:

Weirdly there seem to be a spot where people are expected to stand and touch the statue. No idea what it means but all the people went to touch it. Reminded me of the man on Grand Place in Brussels. People see the other touching it and copy it, assuming it will bring you good fortune, love, etc.
After checking on the Internet, here is what it is all about:
"The most popular statue is probably the one of St. John of Nepomuk, a Czech martyr saint who was executed during the reign of Wenceslas IV by being thrown into the Vltava from the bridge. The plaque on the Charles Bridge is popular with local artists statue has been polished to a shine by countless people having touched it over the centuries. Touching the statue is supposed to bring good luck and ensure your return to Prague"

Only regret, beside the crowd, is that most of the statues on the bridge are black, and covered with dirt/pollution. It’s really a pity that they don’t maintain them in a way so they would be white(r).


The Lesser Town Bridge Tower

PS: if you really want to enjoy the bridge you should be there very early on the morning. As of 10am it’s packed with people. Any doubt, look below.

(Picture taken at 3pm).