Tourists Abroad: Photography on the Charles Bridge in Prague

Spanning nearly 1,700 feet across the Vltava River in Prague, Czech Republic, the Charles Bridge links Prague Castle and Lesser Town with Old Town in the center of the city.  The Gothic sandstone bridge, built in the 15th century, consists of sixteen arches and has always been an important pedestrian crossing over the river in the capitol city.  

The bridge is anchored at both ends by two towers, the Old Town Bridge Tower and the Lesser Town Bridge Tower, with a third, smaller Romanesque tower down a small walkway;  Judith's Tower is the only remaining section of the bridge destroyed by floods in 1342.

In the early 1700's, 30 statues, mostly in the baroque style, depicting saints and patron saints of the time were erected on the bridge's balustrade.  The originals have been replaced by replicas, but may still be viewed in the National Museum.  

The Charles Bridge offers staggering views of the fairy tale Prague Castle and the surrounding areas at all times of the day and night.  Spend as much time on this bridge as possible to fully experience Prague life.  Vendors, artists, and performers entertain a very busy thoroughfare by day while quiet solitude may be found early mornings and late in the evenings.  

Bring an assortment of gear on this trip, including zoom, 50mm, wide-angle, pinhole, and toy cameras to really capture the bridge's personality and the character of the terracotta roof tiles, the patinated domes, and winding streets, church spires, and interesting people from all over the world.  Don't forget to go up in the towers for birds-eye views.