History of Charles Bridge Statues and Towers

King Charles IV began building this bridge in 1357. It replaced the older Judith Bridge, which floods had destroyed. For centuries, it was the only way to cross the Vltava River. This made it vital for trade and defense. The bridge is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It stands as a symbol of Bohemian power and artistry.

The towers at each end served as defensive gates. They also acted as grand entrances to different parts of the city. The Old Town Bridge Tower is often called the most beautiful Gothic gate in Europe. It was designed by Peter Parler, who also worked on St. Vitus Cathedral. These structures protected the bridge during many wars and invasions.

The statues were not part of the original medieval design. Most were added during the Baroque period, starting in the late 17th century. Artists like Matthias Braun and Ferdinand Brokoff created these masterpieces. Today, most of the statues on the bridge are high-quality replicas. The originals are kept in the National Museum to protect them from weather damage. You can learn more about the region at the official Visit Czechia website.

12 Must-See Charles Bridge Statues and Towers

When you walk across the bridge, take your time. There are 30 statues in total, but some stand out more than others. Use this list to find the most significant Charles Bridge statues and towers during your visit. Here are our top picks for a perfect tour.

• Best overall: Statue of St. John of Nepomuk
• Best for views: Old Town Bridge Tower
• Best for history: The Crucifix and Calvary
• Best free activity: Walking the bridge at dawn

1. Name: Old Town Bridge Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: This is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It offers the most iconic view of the bridge and the castle. Climbing the steps provides a unique perspective of the city. Best for: Photographers. Where: Old Town entrance. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: ~190 CZK. Getting there: Walk from Staroměstská metro. Tip: Visit at sunset for golden hour photos.
2. Name: Statue of St. John of Nepomuk Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the oldest statue on the bridge. It commemorates the saint who was thrown into the river. You can read the full history of St. John of Nepomuk to understand its fame. Best for: History buffs. Where: Middle of the bridge, north side. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the middle of the bridge. Tip: Touch the bronze plaque for good luck.
3. Name: Lesser Town Bridge Towers Type: Viewpoint Why go: These two towers mark the entrance to the Malá Strana district. The taller tower is open to the public and houses an exhibition. It provides a great view of the bridge's statues from above. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Malá Strana side. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: ~150 CZK. Getting there: Walk from Malostranské náměstí. Tip: Notice the difference in style between the two towers.
4. Name: The Crucifix and Calvary Type: Religious sight Why go: This is one of the most visually striking groups on the bridge. It features a gold-leafed bronze cross. The Hebrew inscription was added as a historical punishment. Best for: Cultural interest. Where: Near the Old Town side. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Third statue from the Old Town. Tip: Look for the Hebrew letters on the cross.
5. Name: Statue of St. Luthgard Type: Art experience Why go: This is considered the most artistically valuable statue on the bridge. It was carved by Matthias Braun when he was only 26. It depicts a famous vision of the saint. Best for: Art students. Where: Near the Lesser Town side. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: South side of the bridge. Tip: Look at the fine details of the stone drapery.
6. Name: Statue of St. Augustine Type: Religious sight Why go: This statue shows the saint holding a flaming heart. It is a classic example of Baroque drama. The figure is very expressive and detailed. Best for: Baroque fans. Where: North side of the bridge. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Mid-way across the bridge. Tip: Check the base for symbols of his life.
7. Name: Statue of St. Francis of Assisi Type: Religious sight Why go: This statue stands near the Old Town end. It depicts the saint with two angels. It is a peaceful and elegant sculpture. Best for: Quick stops. Where: Near the Old Town entrance. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Second statue on the south side. Tip: It is often less crowded at this end.
8. Name: Statue of St. Anthony of Padua Type: Religious sight Why go: St. Anthony is the patron saint of lost things. The statue shows him holding the infant Jesus. It is a popular spot for a quick prayer. Best for: Traditional pilgrims. Where: North side of the bridge. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the Calvary group. Tip: Notice the lilies he is holding.
9. Name: Statue of St. Jude Thaddeus Type: Religious sight Why go: St. Jude is the patron of hopeless causes. This statue is often surrounded by small candles or flowers. It is a very moving part of the bridge. Best for: Emotional connection. Where: North side of the bridge. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the center. Tip: Observe how locals interact with this statue.
10. Name: Statue of St. Cajetan Type: Religious sight Why go: This statue features a large column behind the saint. It represents the Holy Trinity. It is one of the more complex designs on the bridge. Best for: Symbolic art. Where: South side of the bridge. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the Lesser Town end. Tip: Look for the angels supporting the column.
11. Name: Statue of St. Vitus Type: Local experience Why go: St. Vitus is the patron saint of Bohemia. This statue shows him surrounded by lions. It connects the bridge to the history of the nearby cathedral. Best for: Local lore. Where: North side of the bridge. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the center. Tip: Compare this to the lions at the castle.
12. Name: Kampa Island Stairs Type: Unique experience Why go: These stairs lead directly from the bridge down to Kampa Island. It is a great way to escape the crowds. You can see the bridge's arches from below. Best for: A quiet break. Where: Near the Lesser Town side. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Look for the stone steps on the south side. Tip: Visit the nearby park for a picnic.

Photography Tips for Charles Bridge

Capturing the Charles Bridge statues and towers requires good timing. The bridge is very popular and gets crowded by 9:00 AM. To get photos without people, you must arrive at sunrise. The morning light hits the Old Town Bridge Tower beautifully. You can find more advice in our guide on the best time to visit Charles Bridge.

Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full length of the bridge. If you want to focus on the statues, a prime lens with a low aperture is best. This creates a soft background that makes the stone figures pop. Don't forget to look up at the towers for dramatic angles. The official Prague tourism portal often features great photo examples.

Night photography is also spectacular on the bridge. The statues are lit by soft lamps, creating a mysterious atmosphere. Use a tripod for long exposures of the Vltava River. The reflection of the castle in the water adds a magical touch. Be careful with your gear in the dark crowds.

Nearby Historical Sights to Visit

After exploring the bridge, there is much more to see nearby. You can walk up the hill to explore Prague Castle. It is one of the largest ancient castle complexes in the world. The walk takes about 15 to 20 minutes from the Lesser Town end. It offers even more views of the city's spires.

In the other direction, you will find the Old Town Square. This is home to the Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock. It is a short five-minute walk from the bridge's Old Town entrance. The square is always buzzing with energy and street performers. It is the perfect place to grab a coffee.

If you enjoy climbing towers, don't miss the Powder Tower. It is another Gothic gate that once served as a gunpowder store. It looks very similar to the Old Town Bridge Tower. Climbing it gives you a view of the entire Royal Route. Prague is truly a city of towers.

Practical Travel Information for 2026

Visiting the bridge is free and open 24 hours a day. However, the towers have specific opening hours, usually from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. In 2026, expect ticket prices for the towers to be around 190 CZK. You can buy tickets online or at the entrance. Most major credit cards are accepted at the tower ticket offices.

To get there, take the Metro Line A to Staroměstská. From there, it is a short walk to the Old Town side. Alternatively, take tram 17 or 18 to the Karlovy lázně stop. If you are coming from the castle, walk down through Malá Strana. The bridge is very easy to find from almost anywhere in the center.

Be aware of your surroundings while on the bridge. Pickpockets sometimes operate in very crowded areas. Keep your bags closed and in front of you. Avoid buying art or souvenirs from unlicensed vendors on the walkway. For official information, check the National Tourism Board website. Enjoy your walk across this historic monument!