The most beautiful bridges in Prague. Charles Bridge: a legend. Copper bas-relief on the Charles Bridge. Bridges of Prague - why they are interesting for tourists

Hello friends! The Vltava River in Prague, in my opinion, is an additional decoration of the city. The capital of the Czech Republic is very well located on both banks of the river, not afraid of rocky cliffs. For more than a thousand years, the city has grown and built up, and at present, the Vltava quite equally divides Prague into two parts, moreover, they are equally interesting for their sights.

If there were no river in the central part of the city, would such excellent views be on these famous sights:

In the old days, the bridge in this place was much more exotic - it was hanging and was called Rudolph's shop. Pedestrian Lavka with a width of 3.35 m existed from 1869 until 1914, after which the chain structure was replaced with reinforced concrete. At first, the bridge was named after Archduke Franz Ferdinand, and later renamed Manesov, perpetuating the name of the famous Czech artist.

The Charles Bridge

We are approaching the center and the most popular bridge of Prague - Charles. Founded in 1357, the bridge-history serves the people of the seventh century:

The pedestrian bridge with a sculptural gallery is, of course, the most memorable attraction, and complemented by bridge towers, it has become nothing more than a symbol of Prague:

I have already described in detail the history of the construction of the bridge, its sculptural richness and atmosphere in articles and. I recommend you follow the links. Charles Bridge deserves close acquaintance.

Bridge of the Legions or Legias - this is the name of the bridge that stretches from National Theater to the foot of Petrin Hill. This is one of the longest connections between the two banks of the Vltava. At this point, the river is wider and includes several islands - Streletsky, Zhofin Island and Detsky.

The Legia Bridge also replaced its predecessor, dedicated to Emperor Franz Joseph I. From the middle of the 19th century, the Franz I Bridge was made of iron, but at the turn of the century it was rebuilt into stone, decorated with pylons with baroque turrets:

Nine spans of the bridge rest on powerful, but not devoid of grace, figured supports. The bridge is good no matter how you look at it. This view opens from Streltsy Island, which is located under the Legia Bridge:

Actually, you can only get to and from this bridge, going down front staircase. The Legia Bridge changed its name several times, but in 1989, this issue was finally decided.

The bridge, named after the Czech public figure and writer Alois Jirasek, is relatively young, as it was built in 1929-31. A 6-span bridge connects Nove Mesto at the Masaryk embankment with the Smichov district on the opposite bank:

Jiraskov Bridge stretches for 310 m. It is convenient to get to Children's Island. This bridge does not have any attractions, but there are interesting objects. From the side of the embankment, this is the modern and medieval Shitkovskaya tower.

Do you think the bridges over the Vltava within Prague have been exhausted? Not at all. Their more than a dozen. If you look from Visegrad towards the center, in the foreground will be iron bridge and Palatsky. To help tourists understand, on one of viewing platforms Visegrad installed stone map with the image of bridges and sights along the banks of the Vltava, falling into the field of view:

By the way, the Vltava from the Visegrad Rock pleases the eye. IN sunny weather the river, like a mirror, reflects the rays, and everything sparkles when you look at it from a height.

Friends, if you have already visited Prague, walked along the Charles Bridge and enjoyed the views of the Vltava in the center, but have not yet reached or reached the Letensky Gardens, next time include these points in your routes. The Vltava and its bridges look great from the named heights.

Your euro guide Tatiana

Prague and bridges

Majestic and mysterious Prague attracts tourists like a magnet. Let's talk about something that undoubtedly comes into view - about bridges. Getting into the capital of the Czech Republic, shrouded in secrets and legends, for centuries until the 19th century, residents crossed the river along a single Charles Bridge. Many believe that this is happening now, but this is a big misconception. You will be surprised because bridges in Prague neither more nor less - 18 pieces!

The oldest and most famous throughout Europe, Charles Bridge is sometimes called the Black Bridge. It was built in the 14th century by order of King Charles IV. Why is he remarkable? It is not simple pedestrian bridge but a real museum. It seemed incredibly wide, the knightly tournaments and coronation processions that once took place in these places left their mark. There are 16 arches and thirteen statues of saints on the bridge. It is also a bridge where wishes come true. Don't believe? Just rub the statue of John of Nepomuk and your wildest wish will come true - or so the legend goes.

Another notable bridge in Prague once called the bridge of the intelligentsia. It is only one span less than Karlovo. This is Branicki railroad bridge but also pedestrian. By itself, it is not particularly beautiful, but it is notable for the fact that in the 50s of the last century it was built by representatives of the repressed intelligentsia.

But the Nuselsky Bridge in Prague is covered with many legends and a mystical halo. Yes, this very suicide bridge, on which suicidal elements seek to commit suicide. Disappointed people flocked here like moths to the light to commit suicide and plunge into darkness.

Map of bridges in Prague

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Charles Bridge: 50.086418 , 14.411488

Legia Bridge: 50.081296 , 14.410329

Irasekov bridge: 50.075582 , 14.411380

Palacký Bridge: 50.072814 , 14.412260

Visegrad railway bridge: 50.066891, 14.413548

Manesov Most: 50.089502 , 14.412775

Chekhov Most: 50.092999 , 14.417024

Stefanikov bridge: 50.094265 , 14.427109

Glavkov Most: 50.095697 , 14.437065

Libensky bridge: 50.103295, 14.459982

Bridge of Barricades: 50.113423 , 14.445305

Nuselsky Bridge: 50.066671 , 14.430370

Barrandovsky Bridge: 50.038923 , 14.407325

Branitsky bridge: 50.026794 , 14.397733

Troy Bridge: 50.112267, 14.435949

Bridges of Prague: why are they interesting for tourists? The most beautiful and famous bridges in Prague. Photo.

Golden-domed Prague is famous for its numerous bridges that connect the two banks of the Vltava River. As faithful guardians, persistent and invincible, not subject to the passage of time, they proudly guard the peace local residents. Prague crossings keep memories of coronation processions and jousting tournaments, remember incredible stories bygone times. His excellent style And unique architecture they never cease to amaze residents and guests of the Czech capital.

Bridges of Prague - why are they interesting for tourists?

In total there are 18 bridges in Prague. Many people probably know about this, but only a few know how beautiful they are. Everyone has their own unique look, its amazing story. In each - there is something special, like a magnet attracting tourists. Among the Prague bridges there are different in purpose and size: small pedestrian and large ultra-modern ones, some serve exclusively for transport purposes, while others are favorite places for walking among guests and residents of the Czech capital.

All bridges in Prague were built in different styles. Walking along the river, you can see the majestic Gothic buildings, admire the magnificent Art Nouveau and Neo-Renaissance bridges. The largest and busiest is Barrandovsky Bridge, the longest is Libensky Bridge, the narrowest and shortest is Chekhov Bridge. Surprising is the fact that the city, built along the river, for centuries managed with one single crossing over the Vltava. It was the Yudin Bridge, but severe flood, which Prague experienced in the 14th century, almost completely destroyed it, after which the townspeople erected the Charles Bridge. With a story about him, we will begin our acquaintance with the most beautiful and famous bridges Prague.

Charles Bridge is one of the most visited in Prague. It is difficult to give an unequivocal answer why it is so attractive to tourists. This place has always been considered special and even a little mystical. July 9, 1357, early in the morning, at 5:31 a.m., the first stone famous building laid by Charles IV himself (of course, they named the bridge in honor of the emperor). And today is this date, which is considered successful for any undertaking, as it is a kind of pyramid - 1.3.5.7.9.7.5.3.1. with a nine on top, makes tourists and locals believe the ancient legend that Charles Bridge is a place where wishes come true. It is enough, asking for the secret, to rub the statue of St. John of Nepomuk, which is located in the middle of the 520-meter structure.

Charles Bridge is the oldest bridge in all of Europe. It is decorated with numerous arches and statues of saints. Once upon a time, a horse-drawn tram passed here, then trams ran, and since 1974 the bridge has become a pedestrian one. It is impossible not to mention old tower built at the entrance to the bridge. One of the most beautiful in Europe, it is decorated with many sculptures, and with observation deck, which is arranged inside, a wonderful panorama opens medieval Prague. Of particular interest to guests of the Czech capital are other old buildings that have been preserved here - a dam, mills, Charles Baths, as well as a water tower.

The beautiful arched structure, named after Svyatopolk Cech, a famous Czech writer, is a unique structure - this is the only bridge in the city made in the Art Nouveau style. It has only three iron spans, standing on a stone foundation, and is one of the shortest crossings across the Vltava (only 170 meters in length). But the Chekhov Bridge is noticeable from afar, thanks to the massive 17-meter columns, on which two sculptures of the goddess of victory rise; they serve as a kind of landmark, which helps tourists to find this place at any time of the day. True, it is better to come here in the evening: when two hundred lamps are lit at the same time, the bridge becomes especially beautiful. The street lights are constantly changing color: white turns blue-blue, then red, and then back to white. It's just a mesmerizing sight! The bridge is decorated with bronze statues of lights with torches and an unusual sculpture of a hydra, on which the coat of arms of Prague flaunts. But the most beautiful here is the figurine of an angel holding a golden branch in his hands. The Chekhov Bridge has a very convenient location. From here, a stone's throw to the quarters of the Old City; from there, from a cozy quay, you can go for a walk along the river on a tourist boat. And nearby are the famous Letensky Gardens, the pearl of the left bank of the Vltava.

Glavkov Bridge is one of the oldest in the city and the only one that has managed to retain its original name, given to it in honor of its creator, the famous architect Iosif Glavka. Other bridges in Prague do not differ in such constancy, all of them, even if only once, changed their names. The Glavkov Bridge has been in operation for more than a century. As in ancient times, cute trams run along it, cars drive, and the footpaths are always crowded. In appearance bridge - the imprints of several eras. One half of the structure is elegant metal, and the other half is white concrete. This building is known for its relief sculptures of Bohumil Kafka and Ladislav Kafranka. Jan Sturs, Gutfreind and its creator, Josef Hlavka, also worked on the decoration of the bridge.

The locals often refer to this impressive structure, designed by Josef Klemeš, as the Bridge of the Intelligentsia - that was the first name of the structure. The history of the construction of the Branitsky bridge is considered unique: for three whole years local intellectuals took part in its construction. Construction was completed in the middle of the 20th century, and traffic was launched only 10 years later; All this time, the design was tested for strength. The Branitsky Bridge impresses with its power, it is impossible not to notice it even from afar. The reinforced concrete structure includes as many as 15 spans of quite impressive size, with a total length of about 800 meters. Not every tourist will express a desire to overcome this distance, but you can be sure that determination will pay off in full: a walk along the spacious and comfortable footpaths laid along the edges of the railway track will allow you to enjoy the breathtaking views that open from a 19-meter height.

bridge of lovers

This small bridge (only 20 meters long) over the Chertovka River is located in Small country- a popular area of ​​Prague among tourists. Newlyweds come here, meet their loved ones here, treasured locks are hung on the bars, and the keys are thrown into the river. Lovers believe: then no one will be able to separate them, and joint happiness will be long and cloudless. Through metal bars, tightly hung with locks of various shapes, colors and sizes, one can see the rotating wheel of a water mill. No one knows exactly when it was built: according to some sources - in the 15th century, according to others - in the 13th. Recently, the old mill has been guarded by a small waterman: he sits on a log and smokes a pipe. The monument to this mythical hero was created by Josef Nelepa.

Named after the talented Czech painter Josef Manes, this picturesque bridge connects the center of Prague with one of the districts of the city, which was once a fishing village. Is it any wonder that maritime motifs can still be traced in the external appearance of the building: unusual carved lanterns, sculptures of fishermen - everything here reminds of its original mission. In the evenings, Manesov Bridge turns into one of those places where lovers love to walk, so romantic is the atmosphere here. admire night Prague when the stars are lit in the clear sky, and tall century-old lanterns are on the streets of the city, incorrigible romantics come here. Tourists love this place very much. The view from the bridge is simply mesmerizing. The whole city, immersed in multi-colored lights, is visible at a glance.

Each bridge in the Czech capital deserves a separate story. But it is hardly possible to find words to describe their beauty and splendor. The most attractive for guests of the city are: decorated with blue granite, red sandstone and white marble, the Palacký Bridge, shrouded in a mystical halo, the youngest in Prague and the highest in the Czech Republic Nuselsky bridge, as well as Stefanikov bridge, Barrikadnikov bridge, Karlinsky viaduct, Libensky bridge, etc. .

The bridges of Prague count calling card Czech Republic. Some bear the imprint of antiquity, others embody advanced engineering developments, but all, without exception, are able to give a fabulous experience to every person who is lucky enough to look at them. In general, it is better to see everything with your own eyes, which is what we wish you. Travel and enjoy!

Vltava divides Prague into two parts. If you look at the map, you will see that the river runs right in the middle of the Czech capital. Now several magnificent bridges have been thrown across the river, decorating both the city and the river itself. Curious is the fact that most of the bridges currently existing in Prague were built literally in the last 150 years. Prior to this, the city managed only one, the most ancient -.

The first bridge built in this city was located exactly where Charles Bridge is now located. It was built in the first half of the 10th century from wood. The body of the late Wenceslas from Stara Boleslava was transported to the Castle over this bridge. For several decades, the bridge faithfully served the city, however, the flood of 1157 destroyed it to the ground, and Vladislav II, who ruled at that time, was forced to build new bridge. Thus, soon the Vltava was crossed by the Yuditin bridge, which was located a little to the north. The building got its name in honor of Queen Judith, who oversaw the construction process. In those years, this bridge was considered the only one in Europe. technical facility on such a large scale.

The Judith Bridge existed for almost 200 years, until another flood hit Prague. After the flood of 1342, the bridge was almost completely destroyed. The remains of the pillars of this Romanesque structure are the only thing that reminded of the once powerful structure.

A few years later, in 1357, the construction of the bridge began, which still stands today -. The half-kilometer structure stands on sixteen pylons connected by arched vaults, while the Yuditin Bridge was supported by as many as 24 pillars. Apparently, that's why he suffered, because he obstructed the flow of the river too much.

The bridge, erected by decree of Charles IV, attracted the attention of engineers and architects throughout Europe from the moment it was built. Most long bridge in Europe - Dresden - has long been considered the most spectacular. Prague has always been known as the most durable. The impressive (at that time) width of the bridge, which was almost 10 meters, made it possible to hold tournaments on it, which was actively used by the organizers of such events. As an example, we can mention the tournament of 1436, held here in honor of King Sigmund.

The direct creator of this building was Peter Parlezh. The Baroque period gave the bridge three dozen statues and several groups of saints. A number of these architectural embellishments became the longest gallery of its kind in the world. Many sculptors of this era contributed to the process of creating these masterpieces of architectural art. In addition to other architects and sculptors of that time, the masters of the Brokoff family, as well as Jan Bedrich Kol and Matthias Braun, took the most active part in the creation of the elements of this one. Of all the sculptures, the sculptural group of St. Luittard, the author of which is the same Matthias Braun. It is worth noting that this work glorified the master.

Many floods fell on the Charles Bridge, but to this day it stands firmly on the Vltava. Stronger than all the others was the flood of 1890, which raged so much that not all the sculptures that adorned the building remained in their places. The bridge successfully survived many severe trials, including numerous wars and floods. It became a real battlefield in 1848, during the revolution, and before that, in 1648, the battle of the inhabitants of the Old Town with the Swedish troops took place here. The bridge witnessed the flight of Frederick the Palatinate, who was defeated in the Battle of Belogorsk. All the rulers who ruled the Czech Republic after Charles IV were crowned here, on this bridge. The bridge received its current name relatively recently, in 1870. Prior to that, he was known as "stone", or "Prague".

Charles Bridge for about five centuries was the only link between the banks of Prague. The idea of ​​building another bridge across the Vltava was born only at the beginning of the century before last. The bridge itself appeared in 1842, having received the name Schnierchow. This Empire chain building connects the shores of the Czech capital in the place where this moment located . This building stood until 1901, and then it was replaced by a more modern design, which is now called Lehi's bridge.

As the network develops railways, it became necessary to connect the left bank of Prague with the right bank by means of the construction of an appropriate structure, as a result of which a bridge appeared, through which trains got from to Smichov. This building is successfully functioning in our time. The year of his birth is considered to be 1878, and he is called - which among all stone structures Prague is in second place after Karlov. Not far from the island of Štvanice, another railway bridge was built. At the same time, the Franz I chain bridge stood on the site of the current one.

It is unthinkable, but the people of Prague in modern times quite successfully managed with such a small number of bridges. The river itself had a completely different look: when there were few bridges, one could see the silvery expanse of the Vltava, stretching for many kilometers. Now bridges break the river into many small sections, which completely changes appearance reservoir. Nowadays, a completely different landscape appears before the eyes of citizens and visitors of the city: a number of bridges, lined up in order, look charming in their own way and give the capital of the Czech Republic a unique flavor of a big city.

Each of these structures deserves a separate mention, so we will consider them in more detail. As already mentioned, Palacky Bridge stands in second place among the stone structures after the Charles Bridge. This magnificent building was once decorated with sculptural groups, the author of which was I.V. Thoughtbeck. They had to be removed after the attack by American aircraft, which took place on February 14, 1945. From the side of the New Place, a statue of Libusz with Přemysl was installed, and not far from them stood the legendary singer of that time - Lumir. On the other side of the bridge one could see Zaba with Slava and Tstirada with Sharka. Sculptures that were severely damaged during this raid were moved to more safe place in Vysehrad.

The first bridge structure built in the last century is called (Jiráskův most). Width, which greatly simplified transport problems Praguers. The bridge was built in 1928, and it is named after the writer Alois Jirasek, who was the author of many historical novels. He worked and lived near the place where the bridge now stands. From the side of the New Place on the bridge there is a monument to the writer, and next to it - tenement house with a plaque on it.

Moving further down the river, we will meet May Day Bridge ( , Legionnaires' Bridge), and behind it the Charles Bridge. However, we have already spoken about these structures above. Next in line - (Manesuv most), which was first commissioned in 1916. Its construction began in 1911, however, in subsequent years, during the First World War, it was not possible to complete the construction. This concrete bridge was built near Red Army Square.

The next building we will mention is the former Svatopluk Cech Bridge (), which is the shortest of all. Its length is only 170 meters, and it serves as a connecting link between and the Legen coast.

This building is followed by Štefánikův most, ferrying transport to the Legen tunnel. This concrete structure, where a chain bridge once stood, has been in use since 1951.

A little further down the river is located, consisting of two separate parts. The first of them was built of metal and put into operation in 1910, the second part was built of concrete, and the first transport passed through it two years later, in 1912. This second structure was the first concrete bridge in the city. Such well-known masters as Marzhatka, Stursa and Gutfreind were invited to decorate the building. Glavkov Bridge can be divided into two parts, since it passes through the most big Island in Prague - Štvanice.

A separate topic for discussion will be one of the longest bridge structures in Prague -. Its length is 341 meters, and it is twice as wide as the Charles Bridge. The distance from the left side to the right side is 21 meters. This bridge connected Liben and Holesovice. The structure was built of concrete in 1982.

Construction was completed almost at the same time. Barricade Defenders Bridge (Most Barikádníků)- the last building in the chain of Prague bridges. This bridge helps to get from the center of Prague to. Historically, information says that this place was the stronghold of the Prague Uprising.

Having visited Prague, and having risen to Letna, the tourist will discover a marvelous view of the city, with its magnificent towers, gates and bridges. And here and there, the Vltava is crossed by many bridge structures that create a kind of cascade. Among them is the legendary Charles Bridge, which today is not the only one of its kind, but remains a unique monument on a global scale. The idea of ​​building a bridge across the Nusel Valley arose several decades ago, but since the city did not feel an urgent need for this, this project continued to hang in the air. However, as always happens, anything becomes possible as soon as there is a need for it, and when the time came, another bridge was built from the Pankratska Valley to Novy Mesto, . This happened in the 1960s, as tens of thousands of people Southern city could not otherwise quickly get to the center of Prague. Among other things, there was also a need to build a North-South highway, which could only be laid in this place. In length, this bridge structure stretches for 490 meters, and a metro line has been laid under its foundations. Cars and other vehicles pass over the bridge, standing over the “bowl” of the Nusel Valley, at a height of 40 meters. It is supported by four capital pylons. It is worth noting that the main problem in the design and construction of this structure was overcoming the difficulties of the relief in this place, and not at all the fight against the reservoir.

Highway overpass connecting Vysočany with northern city, is in many ways similar to the bridge over the Nuselskaya valley. Another bridge will soon be built in Prague, which will become part of the North-South highway. This structure will pass over the Prague-Strsed railway station. To some extent, we can assume that it will become a continuation of the Glavkov Bridge.

Prague's bridge structures deserve respect not only for their excellent technical parameters. Bridges differ from each other both in the material taken as a basis in construction and in architectural design. Each of them is beautiful and majestic in its own way. Driving along the bridges of the Czech capital in turn, you will discover more and more new landscapes and panoramas, which you can enjoy endlessly. The city will appear before you more than once in unusual angle and this will help you understand it better. You should definitely take a look at the Prague bridges from above, because from above everything is perceived in a completely different way.