Charles Bridge

Construction of the Charles Bridge began in 1357 under the auspices of King Charles IV, replacing the earlier Judith Bridge which had been swept away by floods in 1342. According to legend, the foundation stone was laid precisely at 5:31 AM on July 9th to create a numerical palindrome (135797531), which was believed to imbue the structure with additional strength and protection. This Gothic masterpiece, designed by architect Peter Parler, served as the most important connection between Prague Castle and the city's Old Town for centuries. Throughout its long existence, the bridge has been a silent witness to many of the most significant events in Czech history. It served as a vital trade route and a site for royal processions, but it also saw heavy combat, particularly during the end of the Thirty Years' War when the Swedish army attempted to cross into the Old Town. Its strategic importance meant it was constantly maintained and defended, surviving numerous floods and military sieges that claimed other structures along the Vltava River. The bridge is most famous for the gallery of thirty predominantly Baroque statues that line its balustrades, most of which were erected between 1683 and 1714. These sculptures depict various saints and patron figures, with the statue of Saint John of Nepomuk being the oldest and most revered. Today, most of the originals have been moved to the National Museum for preservation, replaced by high-quality replicas that continue to provide the bridge with its unique and hauntingly beautiful silhouette against the Prague skyline.