Charles Bridge

Connecting the Old Town to the Malá Strana district, Charles Bridge is undoubtedly the star of Prague. Converted into a pedestrian-only bridge in 1974, this giant structure stretches over 500 meters long and 10 meters wide, and once accommodated four traffic lanes. The path you are walking on was once bustling with horse-drawn carriages. The bridge is named after King Charles IV, and construction began in 1357, when he laid the first stone. The date was chosen for a specific, mathematical reason. A highly superstitous man, the monarch selected July 9, 1357, at precisely 5:31 AM to start the construction. When written in order—year, day, month, and time—the sequence of numbers reads the same forwards and backwards. The previous bridge had been swept away by floods, so this trick was meant to bring luck and make sure that the bridge was secure. It’s amazing what people will do for a little extra luck! Visually, the stone structure is flanked by two large towers at each end. The Gothic style tower you just passed marks the entrance to the Old Town and once served as the gateway for kings during their coronation processions. As you cross Charles Bridge, you’ll pass under the watchful gaze of its 30 statues. You do see all thirty, don’t you? Built in the 17th century, some of the original versions are preserved in Prague’s National Museum. The most famous is the statue of Saint John of Nepomuk, located in the middle of the bridge. According to legend, this religious figure was thrown into the river for refusing to disclose the queen’s confessions to the king. A historical fact or merely popular folklore? That is the question. And you may see passersby placing their left hand on the bottom of the statue. Legend has it that making a wish while doing so will help it come true. Why not give it a try?