The tower that opens onto the famous Charles Bridge from the right bank of the Vltava bears the name of the district in which it is located – Stare Mesto. Unlike the towers located on the opposite bank – in the Mala Strana district, the Old Town tower was built in the same years and by the same masters as Prague's most famous bridge. It is worth noting that Peter Parler's workshop at the turn of the 14th-15th centuries actually built half of Prague's finest sights: St. Vitus Cathedral, Tyn Church, Charles Bridge… Work on the tower was completed in 1380.
The years that have passed have noticeably affected the appearance of this structure. Historians note that the Old Town tower used to be even more beautiful: its roof was covered with gilded plates, and the most important elements of the sculptures and statues were also covered with the noble metal.
However, the changes in the tower's external appearance have not greatly affected travelers' interest in it. It remains just as popular both with those who simply pass through its gates onto Charles Bridge and with those who climb to its observation deck. Just 138 steps, and an excellent panorama of Prague and the Vltava awaits you!
