History of the Charles Bridge Statues and Towers

King Charles IV began building this bridge in 1357. It replaced the older Judith Bridge, which was destroyed by a flood. The bridge was originally quite plain. Most of the famous sculptures were added much later. You can learn more about the history of statues on Charles Bridge explained in local archives. Most pieces were created between 1683 and 1714.

The bridge is a masterpiece of Gothic and Baroque styles. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural value. The towers at each end served as defensive gates. Today, they offer some of the best views in the city. The statues are mostly replicas to protect the originals from weather. You can see the original stones in the National Museum.

12 Must-See Charles Bridge Statues and Towers

There are many things to see on this 516-meter bridge. Use this list to find the most significant Charles Bridge statues and towers during your walk. We have included towers, statues, and even a nearby day trip.

• Best overall: St. John of Nepomuk
• Best for views: Old Town Bridge Tower
• Best for families: Kampa Island Stairs
• Best free activity: Walking the bridge at sunrise

1. Name: Old Town Bridge Tower Type: sight Why go: It is one of the most beautiful Gothic towers in Europe. Best for: Viewpoints Where: Old Town side Time: 45 minutes Cost: Approx. 190 CZK Getting there: Walk from Staroměstská metro. Tip: Check climbing the Old Town Bridge Tower fees before you go.
2. Name: Statue of St. John of Nepomuk Type: sight Why go: This is the oldest and most popular statue on the bridge. Best for: History buffs Where: Middle of the bridge Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Center of the bridge walk. Tip: Touch the bronze plaque for good luck and a return to Prague.
3. Name: Lesser Town Bridge Towers Type: sight Why go: Two different towers connected by a gate create a dramatic entrance to Malá Strana. Best for: Architecture Where: Lesser Town side Time: 30 minutes Cost: Entrance fee for the taller tower. Getting there: Walk from Malostranské náměstí. Tip: The smaller tower is actually older than the bridge itself.
4. Name: Calvary (The Holy Cross) Type: sight Why go: It features a striking gold-leaf Hebrew inscription. Best for: Religious history Where: Near the Old Town end Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: North side of the bridge. Tip: Look for the gold letters that were paid for by a local fine in 1696.
5. Name: Statue of St. Luthgard Type: experience Why go: Often considered the most artistically valuable statue on the bridge. Best for: Art lovers Where: Near the Lesser Town end Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: South side of the bridge. Tip: It was carved by Matthias Braun when he was only 26.
6. Name: Statue of St. Vitus Type: sight Why go: He is the patron saint of the bridge and the city. Best for: Local culture Where: Near the center Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Middle section. Tip: He is depicted standing among lions, which looks quite regal.
7. Name: Kampa Island Access Type: experience Why go: A grand stone staircase leads directly from the bridge to this peaceful island. Best for: Nature Where: Lesser Town side Time: 1 hour Cost: Free Getting there: Stairs near the Lesser Town towers. Tip: It is a great spot to escape the bridge crowds for a moment.
8. Name: Statue of St. Augustine Type: sight Why go: A beautiful Baroque piece showing the saint treading on heretical books. Best for: Photography Where: North side Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk toward the Lesser Town. Tip: The details on the robes are very intricate.
9. Name: Statue of St. Jude Thaddeus Type: sight Why go: He is the patron saint of lost causes and very popular with locals. Best for: Local tradition Where: South side Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Center-right when walking to Lesser Town. Tip: People often leave small notes or prayers near this statue.
10. Name: Statue of St. Francis of Assisi Type: sight Why go: A calm and serene sculpture featuring the famous saint with two angels. Best for: Quiet reflection Where: Near the Old Town end Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: South side of the bridge. Tip: This statue replaced an older one destroyed by floods.
11. Name: Old Town Viewpoint Type: sight Why go: The bridge offers one of the best Prague viewpoints and observation decks for free. Best for: Panorama Where: Anywhere on the bridge Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk the bridge. Tip: Look back toward the Old Town for a classic skyline shot.
12. Name: Karlštejn Castle Type: day trip Why go: This castle was also built by Charles IV and houses the crown jewels. Best for: Day trips Where: 30km from Prague Time: 5-6 hours Cost: Train ticket + 250-500 CZK for tours. Getting there: Train from Prague Main Station. Tip: It is a perfect follow-up to seeing the bridge.

Best Time to Visit and Practical Tips

Visiting the bridge requires some planning to avoid the heavy crowds. The best time to visit Charles Bridge to avoid crowds is before 8:00 AM. At sunrise, the light is perfect for photography and the bridge is quiet. Evening visits are also beautiful, but expect many street performers and artists.

Wear comfortable shoes because the cobblestones are uneven. If you plan to visit the visiting Prague Castle complex, the bridge is the natural walking route. You can find more official information on the Prague tourism portal. Always watch your belongings, as pickpockets sometimes operate in crowded tourist areas.

Exploring Beyond the Bridge

Once you cross the bridge, you enter Malá Strana. This area is full of narrow streets and hidden gardens. You can walk up the hill to the Castle or explore Kampa Island. Many visitors enjoy the riverside parks for a picnic. It is a great way to see the bridge from a different angle.

If you are on a budget, remember that walking the bridge is one of the best free things to do in Prague. You can spend hours looking at the statues without spending a cent. The bridge is also beautiful in winter when the statues are covered in snow. No matter when you go, it remains the city's most iconic landmark.