Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge is Prague’s sandstone pedestrian crossing between Old Town and Malá Strana, with fortified towers at both ends and 30 sculptures lining the parapets. Construction began in 1357 under Charles IV and finished in 1402. It replaced the Judith Bridge, which floods had badly damaged in 1342. The sculptural sequence was added between 1683 and 1928.

The bridge is free and open at all hours. Its central span gives direct views toward Prague Castle, Kampa and the Vltava islands. Daytime crowds can hide the paving, statues and sightlines, so the architectural details are easier to see before the main flow of visitors builds.