Charles Bridge

Together with Prague Castle, Charles Bridge is one of the most important historical landmarks in the Czech Republic, and is known around the world. Its stone construction, which has survived unchanged throughout the ages, serves as proof of the expertise of the medieval architects who constructed it. The bridge itself conceals much secrecy and magic. Originally, it was called the Prague Bridge or the Stone Bridge. Construction for it was launched by Charles IV himself on 9 July 1357 at 5:31 in the morning. The emperor chose this date as the most favourable regarding the conjunction of the starts, which according to astrologists of the day presented the most auspicious moment to initiate construction. According to plans by architect Petr Parler, the bridge has a length of 520 metres and rests on 16 pillars. Legend has it that the bridge's durability comes from the addition of milk and eggs to the mortar.

Bridge Towers of Charles Bridge

Spectacular towers stand on both sides of the bridge. The first of them, Staromestska mostecka vez, is considered to be one of the most beautiful in Europe. A permanent exhibition on the history of Charles Bridge in Prague has now been installed in the second bridge tower, called Malostranska mostecka brana. The sculptured ornamentation, consisting of 30 statues and sculptures along each side of the bridge, presents a unique gallery beneath the wide heavens.

Martyr's Death of St. Jan Nepomuk

One of the oldest of the statues positioned here is the statue of St. Jan Nepomuk. Legend has it that those who touch the metal plaque at its base, the one which depicts the martyr's death of being thrown into the Vltava, will be blessed with good luck for life. Many of the passers by don't let this chance pass them by, which is why this plaque shines today as if it were made of gold. The unique atmosphere is completed by the street artists, mainly painters, who offer their works of art there.

External links:
Charles Bridge (wikipedia)