Quick Guide to Finding the St John Nepomuk Statue

Finding this specific monument is easy if you know what to look for. Most statues on the bridge are made of dark stone. However, the St John Nepomuk figure is cast in bronze. This makes it look slightly different in color and texture. You will also notice a halo with five golden stars around the saint's head. These stars represent the light that allegedly appeared when he was thrown into the river.

If you are coming from the Old Town Square attractions, you will enter the bridge through the large tower. Walk past the first seven statues on your right side. The eighth one is your destination. You will see two bronze plaques at the base. These are polished and bright because millions of people touch them every year.

According to local legend, touching the plaques brings good luck. It also ensures that you will return to Prague one day. Most people touch the falling priest on the left or the dog on the right. If you want to see more of the city's highlights, check out this list of what to see in Prague for your itinerary.

Step-by-Step Directions to the Statue

Follow these steps to reach the statue without getting lost in the crowds. The bridge can be very busy, so having a plan helps. This walk is short but filled with history.

1. Start at the Old Town Bridge Tower: This is the massive Gothic gate on the east side of the Vltava River. It is a great landmark to begin your walk. Time: 1 minute. Cost: Free.
2. Walk toward the Lesser Town: Keep the river on both sides of you. Stay on the right-hand side of the pedestrian path. Typical cost: Free.
3. Count the Statues: Pass the first seven monuments on the right side. The eighth statue is St John Nepomuk. Location: Mid-way across the bridge.
4. Locate the Bronze Plaques: Look at the pedestal below the saint. You will see two scenes depicted in bronze. Common mistake: Touching the wrong statue because many look similar from a distance.

Before you head out, make sure you are prepared for the walk. The bridge is made of cobblestones which can be uneven. Use this checklist to ensure a smooth visit:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a camera or a fully charged smartphone.
• Carry a small bottle of water.
• Check the weather for sudden rain.

Planning Your Visit to Charles Bridge

Timing is everything when visiting such a popular spot. If you want a quiet moment with the saint, arrive early. Between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM is the best time to visit Charles Bridge for photos. During these hours, the light is soft and the crowds are thin.

If you prefer a lively atmosphere, visit in the late afternoon. You will find musicians and artists lining the bridge. However, be prepared to wait in line to touch the statue. If you have extra time, consider climbing the Old Town Bridge Tower steps for a bird's-eye view. This gives you a unique perspective of the entire bridge layout.

For your logistics, remember that the bridge is a pedestrian-only zone. You cannot take a taxi or bus directly onto the bridge. If you are staying far away, take the tram to the 'Staromestska' stop. From there, it is a five-minute walk to the bridge entrance. For official city updates, you can visit the Prague official tourism portal.

Understanding the Charles Bridge Statues History

The Charles Bridge statues history is fascinating and spans several centuries. The statue of St John Nepomuk was the first one placed on the bridge in 1683. It served as a model for all the other statues that followed. The saint was a priest who was martyred by being thrown from the bridge in 1393.

The statue was designed by Matthias Rauchmüller and cast by Jan Brokoff. It is the only bronze statue on the bridge, as the others are stone. This choice of material was meant to honor the importance of the saint. He is the patron saint of the Czech Republic and protects against floods. You can learn more about Czech history on the Visit Czechia website.

When you look at the statue, notice the crucifix in his arms. He is often shown with a finger to his lips, symbolizing the secret of the confessional. This detail is central to his legend. He supposedly refused to reveal the Queen's secrets to the King. This act of loyalty led to his death but earned him sainthood.

Troubleshooting and Common Problems

Visiting the statue is usually straightforward, but a few issues can arise. Knowing these in advance will save you time and frustration. Here are the most common problems travelers face:

• Crowds blocking the view: Large tour groups often stop at this statue for long periods. Be patient or visit very early.
• Touching the wrong spot: Some people touch the cross on the bridge railing instead. That is a different memorial for the saint.
• Poor lighting for selfies: The sun sets behind the castle. In the afternoon, the statue might be in a deep shadow.
• Scams and pickpockets: Like any crowded area, watch your belongings while you are distracted by the statue.
• Construction or cleaning: Occasionally, statues are covered for restoration. Check local news if you see scaffolding.
• Slippery stones: If it rains, the bridge surface becomes very slick. Walk slowly.

If you are unsure about which statue is which, look for the number on the base. While not always obvious, the sequence helps. If you see a dog that is glowing from being touched, you are in the right place. Most people find the statue by simply following the largest group of tourists on the bridge.