Romantic Love Bridge in Prague

Built in 1357 in the Gothic style, the Charles Bridge is a stone bridge connecting the Old Town (Staré Město) and the Mala Strana district on the other side of the Vltava River in Prague. This location was previously occupied by the Judith Bridge, which collapsed into the river after a flood in 1342.

The Charles Bridge was later built to replace it and became the only pedestrian bridge across the Vltava River. Initially known as the Stone Bridge or Prague Bridge, it was renamed the Charles Bridge in 1870 after Emperor Charles IV.

Charles Bridge is one of the oldest stone bridges in Europe. Photo: discoverczech.

Along both sides of the bridge are 30 statues of saints erected on the bridge pillars in the 17th century. This represents a connection between the Gothic and Baroque artistic styles. But the most beautiful and famous statue on this bridge is that of Saint John of Nepomuk. Saint Nepomuk was a priest during the reign of King Wenceslas IV. The king had the priest arrested because he wanted to know how his wife had confessed her sins. Of course, Nepomuk did not reveal anything, so he was tortured to death and thrown into the Vltava River.

The statue of Nepomuk is particularly attractive to tourists. Photo: flickr.

If you're coming from the Old Town Square, the statue will be the eighth one on your right. You can easily spot it by the shiny gold detail at its base. Legend says that rubbing your hand on the bronze plaque at the statue's foot will bring you good luck and ensure you'll return to Prague someday.

Additionally, a few meters away towards the Old Town Square is a golden cross marking the spot where Saint Nepomuk was thrown into the Vltava River. The cross isn't very conspicuous, so you'll have to look carefully to find it, and don't forget to touch the cross and make a wish. It's believed that if you do, your wish will come true for a year.

A street artist is immersed in the music. Photo: flickriver.

The best time to come here for a walk is early in the morning when the bridge isn't too crowded. A romantic stroll through the brightly lit streets at night is also an ideal suggestion.
Here, you'll find souvenir stalls and street artists enthusiastically playing music, singing, and drawing. If you wish, you can even get a sketch done for you right on the bridge in just ten minutes.

It's not uncommon to see couples taking wedding photos on Charles Bridge. Photo: flickr.

As one of the most beautiful and romantic bridges, if you have the chance to visit Prague, don't forget to go to Charles Bridge with your loved one or travel companion and touch the statue of Saint Nepomuk to wish for good luck, happiness, and a promise to be together again.

The Thanh