Roman Emperor and Czech King Charles IV (Karel IV) started construction on the Charles Bridge in 1357. The work was completed by the architect Petr Parler, who transformed the Emperor's cornerstone into a Gothic monument. The two-story bridge tower is lavishly decorated and carved with sculptures of the Emperor, his son Wenceslas, and Saint Vitus.
Rows of Baroque statues were added during the 18th century.
The Charles Bridge is 516 meters long and 9 and a half meters wide. Popular with tourists and street artists, the Charles Bridge offers scenic views of golden stucco buildings below.
