Charles Bridge is a famous historical bridge that crosses the Vltava river in Prague. Charles Bridge used to be the most important connection between the Old Town, Prague Castle and adjacent areas until 1841.
Also this 'solid-land' connection made Prague important as a trade route between east and west Europe. The bridge was originally called the Stone Bridge or the Prague Bridge but has been the "Charles Bridge" since 1870.
The bridge is 516 meters long and nearly 10 meters wide, resting on 16 arches shielded by ice guards. It is protected by three bridge towers, two of them on the Lesser Quarter side and the third one on the Old Town side. The Old Town bridge tower is often considered to be one of the most astonishing civil gothic-style buildings in the world.
The bridge is decorated by a continuous alley of 30 statues and statuaries, most of them baroque-style, erected around 1700.
During the night Charles Bridge is a quiet witness of medieval times. But during the day it changes its face into a very busy place.
Russian painters, owners of the kiosks, and black sailors trade to carry away some money on the tourists.
For more information visit: http://www.prague.com/s/praguecity
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Prague's Charles Bridge
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Very interesting article and great pictures. Prague is the best place for travel in my opinion. Prague gathers history on its hands at easy and is not ashamed of showing it off with amazing modesty. The Charles bridge which connects the two sides of the town is a work of art of its own with its gigantic statues. It is really great construction. The river Vltava divides the town in 2 main sections. The bit called old town has a collection of gothic to renaissance buildings. Churches are most gothic or baroque. Then just ‘above’ we have the Jewish quarter with its synagogues and cemetery and concert hall - Rudolfinum. Then just ‘below’ the bit called new town. I liked, that when I searched for Prague hotels, many of Prague hotels offer free transfers from airport. The easiest and best way find accommodation in Internet! Also I liked when the sun shines its soft yellow and peach colours are a watercolour painting.
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