Charles Bridge . . .

When I told friends we were going to Prague, one of the things they all said was, 'you must visit Charles Bridge'. Strange, I thought, to get so enthusiastic about a bridge no matter how interesting it might be architecturally, but having seen it myself, I too would recommend all visitors to Prague to add it to their 'not to be missed' list.

We first visited it in the evening and even then could see it was an amazing bridge but decided to go back in the morning and see it in daylight.

Charles Bridge is Prague’s oldest bridge. Its foundation stone was laid by Charles IV 1357 and the construction stretched almost for the rest of the 14th century.

There is still today a large arch at either end of the bridge which links the old town to the newer part of the town on opposite sides of the river.

What makes it really interesting are the 30 sculptures spaced out along the bridge, 15 on either side.

Sadly they all seem in need of a good clean but even in their current state you can imagine what an amazing impact they must have had when originally erected.

Here are just a few photos:

The arched entrance to the bridge from the old town.

St John of Nepomuk. He was a priest and court confessor. Legend has it that he refused to break the seal of the confessional and divulge the details of the Queen's confession. As a result he was tortured, bound and gagged and thrown from the bridge. Five stars appeared above the place where he entered the water which is why the statue is crowned with the same stars.


Another legend is that if you touch the plaque at the base of St John's statue you will be certain to return to Prague some day.

The bronze Hebrew inscription (Holy, Holy, Holy God) on the crucifix came in 1696 from the fine of a Jew, who jibed at the cross.

St Bernard

There is so much I could write about our trip but I think I've gone on enough for now. Maybe a few photos from Cologne tomorrow . . .