Where Is Charles Bridge?:
Charles Bridge, or Karluv Most, spans 516 meters over the Vlatva River in Prague. As it used to be the only means of crossing the river, it was an important trade route between Eastern and Western Europe. It was also a key connection in the city’s Old Town, and now it is a main thoroughfare and footbridge for locals and tourists alike.
When Was Charles Bridge Built?:
Charles IV’s Royal astrologists predicted the most auspicious time for the bridge to be built—on July the 9th, at 5:31 am, in the year 1357. This time is carved out on the Old Town Bridge Tower as the numbers 135797531.
Floods and Charles Bridge:
The 15th century was the first year in which the bridge experienced damaging floods. Over the centuries, the bridge has experienced numerous floods, the latest in 2002. Repair work has always followed any damage to the bridge. Reconstruction is currently being undertaken to preserve and stabalize the bridge. At any given time, some of the statues may be shrouded in scaffolding as repair efforts are under way.
Statues on Charles Bridge:
Most of original statues on the bridge were erected between the 17th and 18th centuries. They depict saints and patron saints. The statues seen today on the Charles Bridge are replicas; the originals were removed to protect them from environmental damage.
Why Is Charles Bridge Important?:
Charles Bridge may be considered the heart of Prague. During the day, throngs of people amass on the bridge—pedestrians, vendors, and street performers. It is an enduring monument to the city’s age and resilience and provides a wonderful view of Prague.
How to See Charles Bridge in Prague:
Charles bridge is best viewed in the early mornings, before crowds arrive. At peak times, it is thronging with vendors and tourists.
