Charles Bridge Prague: Walk under the Gaze of 30 Statues

The Charles Bridge Prague statues are stunning, each with its own unique story and significance. The Charles Bridge in Prague is definitely worth visiting. The Charles Bridge is not only a stunning example of medieval architecture but also a significant historical and cultural landmark in Prague. It is the most famous bridge in Prague.

Charles Bridge History

The construction of the Charles Bridge was initiated by King Charles IV, who personally laid its foundational stone. Despite enduring wars, conflicts, and natural disasters throughout the centuries, the bridge has stood resilient. It acquired the name “Charles Bridge” in the 18th century. Serving as a crucial trade route between Eastern and Western Europe, it played a pivotal role in fostering prosperity for the Kings of Prague.

Charles Bridge of Prague, an old stone bridge from 1357 is one famous landmark of Prague. Today Prague has 18 bridges that cross Vltava River but there was a time when Charles Bridge was the only one crossing it. It is the second oldest bridge of Czech Republic.

It was popular by other names like: Stone Bridge, Prague Bridge. Its construction was commissioned by Czech king and Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV.

30 Charles Bridge Prague Statues

Many people recommend visiting Charles bridge early in the morning, but I did quite the opposite. After our tour of the market area of Prague we strolled towards Charles bridge in the evening when sun was set to cast its last glow on this historic town. It seemed like all tourists had the same travel itinerary. Near some of the Charles bridge statues we had to jostle for place for good photography angle.

I was surprised to know later that the statues lined on either side of the bridge were replicas. In 19th century all statues of Charles Bridge were replaced with replicas. The original statues are exhibited in National Museum, Prague.

View of bridge tower on the Malá Strana side of the Charles Bridge.

The Charles Bridge in Prague is adorned with a series of stunning statues, each with its own unique story and significance. Here are some of the notable statues found along the Charles Bridge:

• St. John of Nepomuk Statue: Perhaps the most famous statue on the bridge, this Baroque statue depicts St. John of Nepomuk. According to legend, he was thrown into the Vltava River from the bridge during the reign of King Wenceslaus IV. It is the only bronze statue on the bridge.
• Statue of St. Anthony of Padua: Located on the north side of the bridge, this statue depicts St. Anthony of Padua holding the Infant Jesus. It is a popular spot for tourists to take photos.
• Statue of St. Augustine: Positioned on the south side of the bridge, this statue portrays St. Augustine with a bishop’s crozier and a burning heart. It represents his conversion to Christianity.
• Statue of St. Francis Xavier: Another notable statue on the bridge, it depicts St. Francis Xavier, a Jesuit missionary known for his travels to Asia and his efforts in spreading Christianity.
• Statue of St. Wenceslaus: This statue depicts the revered Czech saint and Duke, St. Wenceslaus, on horseback. It is one of the newer additions to the bridge, dating back to the 19th century.
• Statue of St. Ludmila: Located on the south side of the bridge, this statue honors St. Ludmila, the grandmother of St. Wenceslaus and a significant figure in Czech history.

These are just a few examples of the many statues that adorn the Charles Bridge, each contributing to the bridge’s historic and artistic significance.

Story of John of Nepomuk

Czech Martyr John of Nepomuk; his statue and 2 more places (cross and the golden parts of the metal decorations) in the bridge are connected to this great person. He was a vicar-general of Saint Giles Cathedral in Prague and also believed to be the confessor of the queen of Bohemia. He refused to give away confessional secrets of the queen.

Yet another story associated to him is that: John supported a candidate for a new abbot’s position that went against the King Wenceslaus’ pre-selected candidate. For this reason John was interrogated, tortured and then thrown from the Charles Bridge into the Vltava River.

The specific place from where he was thrown into the river is marked on the bridge by a golden cross. People, locals and tourists, touch with great reverence. Statue rubbing seemed to be a common practice by the tourists. It is a belief that tourists must touch and rub statues in 3 places on Charles Bridge. They are: The two plaques below the statue of Nepomuk and the cross with a five pointed star. Touching the plaque at the base of the statue is believed to bring good luck and ensure a return visit to Prague.

John of Nepomuk’s statue on the Charles Bridge

One plaque shows Nepomuk thrown into the river. Rubbing this statue ensures a return visit to Prague. You won’t miss these statues on Charles Bridge Prague as tourists over the years have rubbed it so much that they shine.

Charles Bridge Prague – Statue Rubbing

The plaque on the statues look polished to a shine. Countless people having touched it over the centuries as touching the statue are supposed to bring good luck and ensure your return to Prague.

I too took time off my photography to touch the statue, and I hope to return to Prague once more!

Charles Bridge Prague – Statue rubbing

Tourists rub the dog statue in the hope of long lasting loyal relationship.

A small bronze cross indicates the spot from where Nepomuk was thrown into the river. The belief associated withis spot is that if you make a wish touching it, the wish is bound to come true within a year. Be sure to make a time sensitive wish here.

Display of 27 Decapitated heads

In 1620, in the Battle of the White Mountain, the combined armies of the Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand II defeated the army of Bohemians and mercenaries. After the battle, the Charles Bridge served yet again as the place of punishment.

Victorious Romans displayed severed heads of 27 revolt leaders on this Charles Bridge. It was a demonstration of power and to teach Bohemians (Czechs) a lesson and stop them from further resistance.

Charles Bridge, once a Shopping Market

Until 1828, little shops lined either side of the bridge. Charles Bridge in Prague was a mini shopping market. Bakers, butchers and all had their wares to sell. Today, it is no longer a market but you can spot local artists and buskers making a living by displaying their skills and entertaining the tourists.

Musician in Charles Bridge

Eggs used in making of Charles Bridge? 

There was a popular legend that people walking from across the country bringing eggs for the construction of Charles Bridge. Builders were adding eggs to the grout to strengthen the mixture. Eventually they ran out of eggs and appealed to people from all over the country to bring more.

These stories entertained children and introduced them to history of the iconic structure in a fun way. To check on this the scientists from the University of Chemistry and Technology Prague analyzed the samples of the grout from the bridge. In 2010, they declared that there are truly no eggs in the grout. But surprisingly, the analysis revealed samples of milk and wine. How is that!

How to reach Charles bridge Prague

To reach the Charles Bridge in Prague, you have several options depending on your starting point:

From Prague’s Old Town Square: If you’re starting from Prague’s Old Town Square, you can walk to the Charles Bridge in about 10-15 minutes. Simply head towards the Vltava River and follow the signs directing you to the bridge.

Using Public Transportation: Prague has an extensive public transportation network, including trams and metro lines. Depending on your location, you can take a tram or metro to a station near the Charles Bridge and then walk the rest of the way. The closest metro station to the Charles Bridge is “Staroměstská” on Line A (Green Line).

By Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Prague. You can simply request a taxi or use a ride-sharing app to take you directly to the Charles Bridge.

By River Cruise: Another scenic way to reach the Charles Bridge is by taking a river cruise along the Vltava River. Many river cruises include stops near the bridge, allowing you to disembark and explore its surroundings.

Guided Tours: Joining a guided walking tour of Prague’s historic center is another option. Many tours include visits to iconic landmarks such as the Charles Bridge, providing informative commentary along the way.

FAQs about Charles Bridge Statues in Prague Czech Republic

Here are five frequently asked questions (FAQs) along with their corresponding answers about the Charles Bridge in Prague:

When was the Charles Bridge built?

The construction of the Charles Bridge began in 1357 under the reign of King Charles IV, but it was not completed until the beginning of the 15th century.

How long is the Charles Bridge?

The Charles Bridge spans approximately 515 meters (1,689 feet) across the Vltava River, making it one of the longest medieval bridges in Europe.

What is the significance of the statues on the Charles Bridge?

The Charles Bridge is adorned with 30 statues and statuaries, most of which were added during the 17th and 18th centuries. These statues depict various saints and historical figures, each with its own unique story and symbolism.

Can I cross the Charles Bridge by car?

No, vehicular traffic is not allowed on the Charles Bridge. It is primarily a pedestrian bridge, although it is occasionally used for special events and processions.

What are the best times to visit the Charles Bridge?

The Charles Bridge is a popular tourist destination, so it can get crowded during peak hours. To avoid the crowds and enjoy the best views, it’s recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the evening. Additionally, visiting during sunrise or sunset offers spectacular lighting and photo opportunities.

Conclusion

Charles Bridge in Prague is one bridge I saw with lot of activities. No vehicular traffic, it was one pleasant walk through the bridge watching many vendors and artists on the bridge at their work and of course the statues on Charles Bridge. Keep in mind that the St. Charles bridge can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, so it’s advisable to visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds.

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