The Lesser Town Bridge Tower is one of two towers at the west end of the world-famous Charles Bridge. View the two towers, which stand on either side of a gateway that marks the entrance into Prague’s Lesser Town (Mala Strana).
As you approach, take the time to compare and contrast the two adjacent towers. The smaller tower, known as the Judith Tower, is Romanesque in style. Having been originally built in the 12th century, it predates the 15th-century Charles Bridge though was given a Renaissance facelift in the late 16th century. The other tower, known as the Lesser Town Bridge Tower, is from 1464 and has at various times been used as a warning tower and for storage. The gate between the two towers dates from the 15th century.
While the Judith Tower is not open to the public, the Lesser Town Bridge Tower is. Enter the tower to find a permanent exhibition chronicling the history of the famous Charles Bridge. Find out about the story behind this Charles IV-commissioned 16-arch bridge, which spans the River Vltava, connecting Prague’s Old Town to the Lesser Town.
Climb to the top of the tower to admire views out across the river and the bridge. Look down over the cobblestone span of the bridge, where artists and street sellers vie for tourists’ attention. Watch tourists pose for photos at the edge of the bridge next to the Baroque statues that stand guard on either side.
Pass under the archway of the Lesser Town Bridge Tower to access the Mala Strana (Lesser Town), which is home to several well-known Prague attractions including the Church of St. Nicholas and Kampa Island. Start your approach from the Old Town so you can take photographs on the iconic bridge before arriving at the tower. The tower is open daily, with extended hours during the busier summer months. An entrance fee applies.
