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Walk across the Charles Bridge

The impressive Charles Bridge with its 16 arches is Prague’s landmark monument. The oldest bridge in Prague was named after Emperor Charles IV, who not only commissioned the construction of this 516-metre-long bridge in 1357, but also personally laid the first stone. The bridge only received its current name in 1870; before that it was simply known as the Stone Bridge.

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Prague, 捷克共和国

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Statues on the bridge

Saints on the bridge

The statues of the 30 saints that line both sides of the bridge were placed here in the 17th and 18th centuries. The oldest statue represents the crucifixion of Christ and dates back to 1667. The statues were donated by the judges and noblemen who were involved in the Counter Reformation, a reform movement within the Roman Catholic Church. Prague was the centre of this movement. The sculptures were added to the bridge to make it resemble the St. Angelo Bridge in Rome. Today all the sculptures have been replaced by replicas.

The bridge tower at the Charles Bridge

Sandstone bridge

The fast current of the Vltava River was an important factor in the design of the bridge. This resulted in the use of sandstone as this building material does not erode in the fast current. The pillars of the bridge were streamlined to allow the water flow to pass unimpeded. It is said that the cement was enriched with eggs to make it sturdier. However, tests have proven inconclusive so the mystery remains. The Charles Bridge is well worth a visit, and do also make time to see the bridge tower on the south side of the bridge - it is among one of the most beautiful Gothic structures in the world.

Art on the Charles Bridge

All the luck in the world

To the pleasure of the many tourists who flock here, the bridge is only accessible to pedestrians. It is always busy: artists sell their paintings and drawings, street performers entertain the crowds and in the evening this is a popular meeting place for young people. Watch the crowds gather around the statue of John of Nepomuk - according to local legend, you will receive all the luck in the world if you simultaneously touch the statue’s 2 copper plates.

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Culinary

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Romance

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The Dancing House (Tančící dům) is the most famous contemporary building in Prague, a city most known for its historic architecture. The renowned restaurant Céleste is located on the upper floors of this bold structure on the Vltava River. Guests dine in style here, with a breathtaking panorama of Prague as a backdrop.

Arts & Culture

Prague is a city of literature, art and above all, music. It was home to Antonín Dvořák and Bedřich Smetana, 2 of the world's greatest composers. Mozart also had a special relationship with Prague – his opera Don Giovanni had its première there, and he even wrote a symphony especially for the Prague public.

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If you have a sweet tooth, Prague is the place to be. The city offers an abundance of candies, cakes and chocolate. Almost every street has at least one cukrárna or pastry shop where all kinds of goodies in shop windows beg to be tasted. Choose cheerful marzipan figures or opt for a fruit pastry bursting with blueberries and cream. And who can resist a slice of freshly baked bábovka, or bundt cake?

Romance

Romance comes alive in Prague, a city of medieval streets, elaborately decorated churches and idyllic vistas over the Vltava River. The famous Czech composer Smetana created a symphonic ode to the mighty river which winds its way through Bohemia and divides Prague in two.

Romance

Enjoy a sumptuous dinner in a superb setting with a glass of good wine at hand. Prague has all the elements for a long, romantic evening. The perfect place for an intimate occasion is situated among the vines on the hill of Prague Castle.

Romance

Its picturesque houses and beautiful English-style gardens, set against the backdrop of the Old City, make Kampa Island one of Prague’s most charming spots. Enjoy a leisurely picnic in the park, visit the museum of modern art or admire the majestic palaces on the waterfront.

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In the heart of Prague, on the banks of the Vltava River, lies the district of Josefov. This Jewish neighbourhood has an illustrious history and forms the setting for many tales by writer Franz Kafka, who lived here. Take the time to explore the cobbled streets and become acquainted with the culture, architecture and stories of Prague’s Jewish community.

Arts & Culture

In the shadow of Prague Castle lies the ‘Zlatá ulicka’, the Golden Lane. The lane is named after the goldsmiths who were housed here by Emperor Rudolf II. Legend has it he commissioned them to find a substance that could turn metal into gold. In reality, the story is much less eccentric: back in the 16th century, these 11 tiny houses were built in this lane to accommodate the castle guards and their families.

Arts & Culture

The monumental Prague Castle dating from 880 is the largest castle complex in the world and the city’s most famous attraction. Throughout the centuries, countless kings have resided in this complex of palaces and churches. Today it is the office of Milos Zeman, the president of the Czech Republic.

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Some claim that Pilsener is the best Czech invention ever! Prague is not only home to many bars in historic cellars and buildings, but also to large beer halls and modern cafés. In local pubs, the traditionally brewed beer is typically cheaper than water.

Arts & Culture

Prague’s astronomical clock by clockmaker Mikuláš is not only beautiful to look at, it is also one of the oldest and most detailed clocks ever manufactured. This clock on the façade of the Town Hall is one of Prague's top attractions. In addition to telling time, it also indicates the phase of the moon and the stars.