The Fascinating History of Charles Bridge

The story of the bridge began in 1357. King Charles IV laid the first stone himself. Legend says he chose a specific time for luck. The numbers 1-3-5-7-9-7-5-3-1 represent the date and time. This palindromic sequence was meant to protect the bridge forever. It replaced the older Judith Bridge, which floodwaters destroyed in 1342.

For centuries, this was the only way to cross the Vltava River. It made Prague a major trade hub in Central Europe. Merchants and royalty alike used this path to reach the Old Town Square. The bridge is a masterpiece of Gothic engineering. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural value.

The statues were not added until later. Most appeared during the Baroque period between 1683 and 1714. They transformed the bridge into an open-air gallery. Today, many originals are kept in museums to prevent damage. The statues you see now are high-quality replicas that preserve the bridge's historic look.

10 Iconic Charles Bridge Statues and Landmarks

Here are the top sights to see while crossing the bridge. These items represent the best of Charles Bridge statues and history. Each one offers a unique glimpse into the city's religious and artistic past.

• Quick Pick - Best for Luck: Statue of St. John of Nepomuk
• Quick Pick - Best View: Old Town Bridge Tower
• Quick Pick - Best Photo Spot: The Crucifix and Calvary
• Quick Pick - Best for Art Lovers: Statue of St. Luthgard

1. Name: Statue of St. John of Nepomuk Type: Statue Why go: This is the oldest and most famous statue on the bridge. Legend says touching the bronze relief brings good luck and a return to Prague. Best for: History buffs and those seeking luck. Where: North side, near the middle of the bridge. Time: 5-10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from either bridge tower toward the center. Tip: Look for the shiny gold spots where millions of hands have rubbed the metal.
2. Name: The Crucifix and Calvary Type: Monument Why go: This site has featured a cross since the 14th century. The current bronze figures are incredibly detailed and include a unique Hebrew inscription. Best for: Religious history. Where: North side, third statue from the Old Town side. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Enter from the Old Town Bridge Tower. Tip: The gold-leaf letters were funded by a fine levied against a local merchant in 1696.
3. Name: Old Town Bridge Tower Type: Architecture/Viewpoint Why go: It is considered one of the most beautiful Gothic towers in Europe. You can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the bridge and Prague Castle. Best for: Photographers and view seekers. Where: Old Town entrance of the bridge. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Moderate fee for tower entry. Getting there: Reach via Karlova Street from Old Town Square. Tip: Go 15 minutes before sunset for the best lighting over the river.
4. Name: Statue of St. Luthgard Type: Statue Why go: Created by Matthias Braun, this is often called the most artistically valuable statue on the bridge. It depicts a blind nun's vision. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: South side of the bridge. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk toward the Mala Strana side. Tip: Note the dramatic Baroque movement and emotion in the stone carving.
5. Name: Statue of St. Adalbert Type: Statue Why go: Adalbert was the first Czech-born Bishop of Prague. This statue honors his role in bringing Christianity to the region. Best for: Local history. Where: South side, near the Lesser Town end. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from the Mala Strana entrance. Tip: The original statue from 1709 is now in the National Museum.
6. Name: Statue of St. Vitus Type: Statue Why go: St. Vitus is the patron saint of the city and the namesake of the great cathedral. He is shown surrounded by lions. Best for: Families and children. Where: North side of the bridge. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Mid-way across the bridge. Tip: Check out the lions at the base, which represent his legendary martyrdom.
7. Name: Statue of St. Wenceslas Type: Statue Why go: Wenceslas is the patron saint of the Czech lands. This statue was added later in 1858 to honor the national hero. Best for: Cultural identity. Where: North side, near the Lesser Town towers. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Mala Strana side. Tip: Compare this style to the older Baroque statues to see how art changed over time.
8. Name: Lesser Town Bridge Towers Type: Architecture Why go: These two towers mark the entrance to Mala Strana. The taller one is open to the public and offers a great view of the bridge's length. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: West end of the bridge. Time: 20-30 minutes. Cost: Small fee for the taller tower. Getting there: Walk across from Old Town. Tip: The smaller tower is the only remaining part of the original Judith Bridge.
9. Name: Statue of St. Francis of Assisi Type: Statue Why go: This statue features two angels and depicts the saint in a peaceful pose. It adds a sense of calm to the busy bridge. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: North side. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located near the Old Town end. Tip: This is a great spot to stop and look back at the Old Town skyline.
10. Name: Statue of St. Anthony of Padua Type: Statue Why go: This beautiful sculpture shows the saint with the infant Jesus. It is one of the many historic religious sites represented on the bridge. Best for: Religious art. Where: North side. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easily reached from the Old Town side. Tip: Look for the lilies in the saint's hand, a symbol of purity.

Planning Your Visit to Charles Bridge in 2026

Visiting in 2026 requires some strategy. The bridge is one of the most crowded spots in Europe. To enjoy the Charles Bridge statues and history without the crowds, arrive early. Sunrise is the best time for a peaceful walk. You will see the bridge glowing in the soft morning light. This is also the best time for professional-looking photos.

By 10:00 AM, the bridge becomes very busy. Street performers, artists, and souvenir sellers fill the space. While this creates a lively atmosphere, it can be overwhelming. If you prefer a quiet experience, consider a late-night stroll. The statues look hauntingly beautiful under the historic gas lamps. The bridge is fully pedestrianized and safe to walk at night.

Check the official Prague tourism portal for any maintenance updates. Sometimes specific statues are covered for restoration. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the cobblestones are uneven. Most people spend about 45 minutes crossing if they stop to look at everything. There are no public restrooms on the bridge itself, so plan accordingly.

Exploring Attractions Near the Bridge

Once you cross the bridge, many other sites await. On the Mala Strana side, you are steps away from Kampa Island. This area features modern art and quiet parks. You can also head uphill to visit the Prague Castle complex. The walk takes about 15 to 20 minutes from the bridge towers.

On the Old Town side, follow Karlova Street. This winding road leads directly to the Old Town Square. Here, you can see the Astronomical Clock and the Tyn Church. For a different perspective, consider visiting the Vysehrad Fortress. It offers a quieter historical experience further down the river.

If you have extra time, explore the river banks. Boat tours depart from under the bridge on the Old Town side. These tours offer a unique view of the bridge's arches. You can see the water-level marks from historic floods. It is a relaxing way to learn more about the city's relationship with the Vltava.