Czech Republic
Charles Bridge
Welcome to Prague! Charles Bridge is a beautiful old stone bridge that crosses the Vltava River, lined with rows of statues and towers on each end.
Why is it famous?
For hundreds of years it was the only way to cross the river between the two halves of Prague.
Today it is one of the most beloved and photographed bridges in all of Europe.
How was it built?
King Charles IV ordered the bridge built in 1357, and it took nearly 50 years to finish.
It rests on 16 sturdy stone arches and is guarded by tall gothic towers at each end.
Amazing facts
The bridge stretches about 1,700 feet across the river — that's longer than five football fields!
Thirty statues of saints line its sides, added mostly over 200 years ago.
Quick facts
- The bridge stretches about 1,700 feet across the river — that's longer than five football fields!
- Thirty statues of saints line its sides, added mostly over 200 years ago.
- It was the only bridge across the river in Prague until 1841.
- The bridge is only for walking — no cars are allowed.