GALLERY OF STATUES AT CHARLES BRIDGE

Certainly, the view of the Charles Bridge from one end with an array of statues lining both sides of the bridge leaves an indelible image in the minds of any visitor. There are 30 baroque statues on this historic Gothic bridge dating back to period between 1683 and 1714.

View of the old town bridge tower with it's numerous sculptures.

Statue of Saints Norbert of Xanten, Wenceslas and Sigismund 

 

St. Cyril and St. Methodius

Statuary of the Holy Crucifix and Calvary

 

The statue of John of Nepomuk.

 Amongst the most notable of all sculptures is the statue of St John of Nepomuk. Legend has it that if you make a wish and touch the statue, your wish will come true.

Make your wish come true !

It is believed that St John was murdered and his body thrown into the river.7 Stars appeared over the spot where his body was thrown . These are depicted as a halo on his statues.

CHARLES BRIDGE IN PRAGUE

One of the most popular tourist spots in Prague is the Charles Bridge over the river Vtlava river. This 14th century Gothic stone bridge was started in 1357 and was finished in 1402.

A must-see on all tourist's iternery, a visit to Prague would be incomplete without a visit to this all pedestrian bridge. Both sides of the bridge are lined with vendors selling soveniours, musicians and painters with thier paintings of Prague. You could also get your portrait sketched by one of the many painters present.

There is a tower standing on both ends of the bridge giving it a very interesting look.

A great time to visit the Charles bridge is at Dusk when the Prague Castle gets lit up and a breathtaking view of the castle awaits you. Another great time to visit the bridge is early morning when you can have the bridge all to yourself and enjoy the fresh air blowing in  from the river.

The bridge is 516 metres long and nearly 10 metres wide and rests on 16 arches and is protected by three bridge towers. It is believed that egg yolk was used to strengthen  the mortar during construction to bind the stones blocks together.

Walk down to the Charles Bridge from the Prague Castle when you visit the castle. It is a short interesting walk.

Prague. August 2010