Charles Bridge, or "Karlův most" in Czech, is a historic and iconic symbol of Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic. It spans the Vltava river, connecting Prague's Old Town and Lesser Town. The bridge, named after King Charles IV, was initiated by him in 1357 and was completed at the beginning of the 15th century. A fascinating fact about its construction is that it's believed the initial foundation stone was laid at exactly 5:31 am on July 9, 1357. The King's numerologists insisted on this specific time as it formed a palindrome (135797531) which would give the bridge additional strength. The Charles Bridge is about 516 meters long and 10 meters wide, built entirely of sandstone blocks. Until 1841, it was the only means of crossing the river Vltava, making it a vital route for trade between Eastern and Western Europe. Strolling along the bridge, one cannot miss the 30 statues and statuaries situated on the balustrade, most of them in baroque style. The most famous of them all is the statue of St. John of Nepomuk, the patron saint of the Czech Republic. A tradition suggests that touching the statue brings good fortune and ensures that the visitor will return to Prague. The bridge tower on the side of the Old Town is considered one of the most astonishing gothic-style buildings in the world. The bridge's interior, however, is not accessible to the public as it's a solid structure. The Charles Bridge has withstood many floods, especially the great flood in 2002 which damaged three pillars. But through numerous renovations, the bridge has maintained its original form. Today, the Charles Bridge is a bustling spot, filled with artists, musicians, and vendors. It offers breathtaking views of the Prague Castle and the Vltava River, especially during sunrise or sunset, making it a favourite spot for tourists and locals alike. It's not just a bridge; it's a testament to Prague's rich history and architectural prowess.