The Old Town Bridge Tower is a very impressive Gothic structure. Its construction began soon after the laying of the foundation stone for Charles Bridge in 1357. Along with the bridge, Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV had it built according to the design of Peter Parléř. The entrance gate leading to the Old Town of Prague was conceived not only as a fortification, but also as a symbolic triumphal arch, through which Bohemian kings walked on their coronation procession to St. Vitus Cathedral at Prague Castle.
The tower is very well visible from many places along the Vltava river, particularly along the left (west) bank. Very impressive compositions can be made directly from the Charles Bridge. And, other nice compositions can be made from Hergetova cihelna.
Sunrise or dawn is a good time to have only few people around and sunsets can nicely lit the Tower from west (from Charles Bridge).
There are very nice views directly from the Tower. For more information about photography Charles Bridge photography from the top platform read its own article. You can also check out nice views from the windows of the Tower.
Getting there: The Tower is right on the eastern side of the Charles Bridge, close to Staroměstská underground station.
Regular admission is 150 CZK and it's open 7 days a week. The opening times vary per season though:
Months | Opening times |
---|---|
January – March | 10.00 – 18.00 |
April – May | 10.00 – 19.00 |
June – August | 09.00 – 21.00 |
September | 10.00 – 19.00 |
October – November | 10.00 – 18.00 |
December | 10.00 – 20.00 |
For updates check out the Tower's official website.