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Old Town Bridge Tower: A Gothic Gateway to Prague's History

Ascend Prague's Old Town Bridge Tower for breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's rich Gothic history and royal past.

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The Old Town Bridge Tower, a stunning Gothic structure, marks the entrance to Prague's Old Town from the Charles Bridge. Built in the 14th century under Emperor Charles IV, it served as both a triumphal arch and a defensive fortification. Climb the 138 steps for panoramic views of Prague Castle and the Vltava River.

A brief summary to Old Town Bridge Tower

  • Monday 10 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-7 pm
  • Friday 10 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
  • Check the opening hours on the Prague City Tourism official website before your visit.
  • Purchase tickets online to save time and guarantee entry.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the climb up the 138 steps to the top of the tower.
  • Take your time on the narrow staircase, as it can get crowded.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Old Town Bridge Tower is located at the Old Town end of Charles Bridge, easily accessible on foot from Old Town Square. From the square, walk south on Karlova Street, which leads directly to Křižovnické Square and the bridge. The tower is situated on the right bank of the Vltava River, marking the entrance to Charles Bridge. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Old Town Bridge Tower via public transport, take Metro Line A to Staroměstská station. From there, it's a short walk to Křižovnické Square and Charles Bridge. Alternatively, take Tram 17 or 18 to the Karlovy lázně or Staroměstská stop, both a few minutes' walk from the tower. A single 90-minute ticket costs 40 CZK.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Prague. A short ride from Wenceslas Square to the Old Town Bridge Tower typically costs between 150 CZK and 250 CZK, depending on traffic and the specific service. Be sure the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand.

Unlock the Best of Old Town Bridge Tower

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Discover more about Old Town Bridge Tower

The Old Town Bridge Tower (Staroměstská mostecká věž) is a captivating Gothic monument in Prague, Czech Republic. Construction began in 1357 under Emperor Charles IV and was completed in 1380. Designed by Petr Parléř, the tower is considered one of the most beautiful Gothic structures in Europe. Originally, the tower served as a triumphal arch for Bohemian kings on their coronation route to Prague Castle. It also functioned as a crucial part of Prague's fortifications, protecting the Old Town from invaders. The tower's eastern facade boasts intricate sculptural decorations with religious, symbolic, and geometric elements. Statues of St. Sigismund and St. Adalbert, along with Emperor Charles IV, St. Vitus, and King Wenceslas IV, adorn the facade. In the 17th century, the tower's east end was the site of a grim display. Following the Battle of White Mountain in 1620, the heads of twelve executed Czech anti-Habsburg rebels were placed in iron baskets and hung on the tower for ten years as a warning. Despite damage from a Swedish attack in 1648, much of Petr Parléř's sculptural work remains. Visitors can climb the 138 steps to the top, 47 meters above the bridge, for breathtaking views of Charles Bridge, the Vltava River, Prague Castle, and the Old Town.

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