Prague
Permanent collection

Explore Prague's Old Town Bridge Tower: A Gothic Architectural Landmark with Panoramic City Views

Discover the 14th-century masterpiece by Petr Parléř, showcasing centuries of Prague's royal heritage and breathtaking views.

The Old Town Bridge Tower in Prague invites you to step back in time. This stunning Gothic gateway, built in the 14th century, once served as a symbolic victory arch for Czech kings. Visitors can climb 138 steps to its viewing gallery for unparalleled panoramic views across the city, truly connecting with Prague's rich historical narrative. Delve into its architectural significance and intricate sculptural details.

About Old Town Bridge Tower at Powder Tower in Prague

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Old Town Bridge Tower at Powder Tower in Prague

Exhibition summary

Explore the Old Town Bridge Tower, a magnificent Gothic gateway dating back to the mid-14th century. Climb 138 steps to its viewing gallery for unforgettable views of Prague and learn about its rich history as a symbolic victory arch.

Curatorial context

The Old Town Bridge Tower stands as one of the world's most beautiful Gothic gateways, a testament to 14th-century architecture designed by Petr Parléř under Emperor Charles IV. Conceived as a symbolic victory arch, it marked the ceremonial passage for Czech kings during their coronation processions. Visitors can ascend 138 steps to the viewing gallery, offering unparalleled vistas of Prague. The tower's history is intertwined with significant events, including its damage during a Swedish siege and reconstructions by notable architects like Josef Mocker. The tower's sculptural decoration is rich with symbolism, featuring mythical creatures, territorial emblems, and depictions of saints and royalty, illustrating historical and astrological connections. Originally, the tower also served a defensive purpose and housed statues of historical figures and allegorical representations. The passage through the gate retains traces of Gothic painting, and the spiral staircase leads to various levels, including former guard rooms and prisons, culminating in its current function as a historical monument and viewpoint.

Admission and ticket notes

Admission tickets are available for basic, reduced, family, and combi options, including discounts for youth, seniors, children, and holders of the Lítačka card. An 'Early Bird Discount' offers 50% off during the first hour of opening. Combi-tickets for the Old Town Bridge Tower and Lesser Town Bridge Tower are also available, as is a '9 Prague Sights in 365 Days Ticket'. Prague City Tourism is the official ticket seller. Reduced admission is available for youth aged 16-26, children up to 5 years, seniors over 65, holders of disability identification cards (ZTP/P), and accompanying persons for ZTP/P cardholders.

Old Town Bridge Tower key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Old Town Bridge Tower at Powder Tower in Prague

Venue
Powder Tower
Current status
Permanent collection
Exhibition schedule
Permanent display (no announced closing date)
Artist line / attribution
The tower's design is attributed to Petr Parléř, with construction overseen by Michael Savoyen and completed by stonemason Petr in the 2nd half of the 14th century. Later reconstructions and repairs involved architects such as Carlo Lurago, Giovanni Spinetti, and Josef Mocker. Original statues were replaced by copies in 1978 and new sandstone versions in 2006, with some originals displayed in the National Museum's Lapidary. The stained glass windows are based on designs by Jiří Bink.
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