The Charles Bridge is located in Prague, Czech Republic. It is one of the most iconic bridges in the city, and it could just be one of the most beautiful in Europe.
Before you stroll over the bridge, here are a few interesting facts.
1. The Charles Bridge Was Named After King Charles IV
The legend is that King Charles IV laid the first stone for the bridge in 1357.
A statue of the King is in Krizovnicke Square – just as you walk through the Old Town Bridge Tower.
2. The Bridge Crosses the Vltava River.
The bridge was completed in 1402, and for 400 years, it was the only bridge that crossed the Vltava River. Today, it helps to connect Old Town Prague with the Prague Castle.
It is the oldest bridge in Prague.
3. There are over 30 statues on the bridge.
On the sides of the Charles Bridge, there are over 30 statues that were erected between 1683 and 1714. The statues are of saints and patron saints that the nation holds dear to history.
Travel tip: Check out Saint John of Nepomuk on the Charles Bridge if you visit Prague. It has a halo around the head of the statue with five stars. Located near his statue, there are some metal decorations with gold flowers. Locals believe that if you touch the gold decorations, you will be blessed with good fortune by Saint John of Nepomuk and guaranteed your return to Prague.
4. Visit the Charles Bridge at Sunrise or Sunset.
The best time for photography at the Charles Bridge is sunrise or sunset. There are fewer people, and the light is at its best. During the day, the bridge gets very busy with tourists, street performers, and vendors.
5. There are many legends about the Charles Bridge.
The legends say that eggs were used in the mortar of the original construction. The legend goes on to say that villages were asked to donate raw eggs to build the bridge.
Even more, some believe a golden sword is buried in the bridge.
6. It’s a romantic place for a late-evening kiss!
For lovers, Prague can feel like a very romantic city. After sunset on the Charles Bridge, the lights are turned on, creating a beautiful setting for an evening kiss on the bridge.
The lights from the castle on the hill make you feel like you are back in the 1500s.
7. The Charles Bridge has withstood a lot of natural abuse.
Floods have always tormented Prague. All sorts of debris, fallen trees, and garbage in the Vltava River have been pushed up against the bridge, causing wear and tear over the years.
During a flood in the 1870s, three arches collapsed against the river's pressure, and two towers fell.
The bridge is fragile in places and constantly under repair. Practicing extra care and caution while enjoying the Charles Bridge is always best.
Today, the Charles Bridge is a strong symbol of the Czech people’s ability to persevere through changing times.
Should you ever find yourself visiting the beautiful city of Prague in the Czech Republic, I hope you enjoy your walk across the Charles Bridge.
Happy travels!
Marla
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