The bridge was constructed in 1357 under the watchful eye of King Charles IV. The old bridge which connected the two parts of the city, built in 1158, was more than due for some repairs. It was severely damaged in a flood in 1342 which lead to its demolition and the construction of the new Charles Bridge, named after the King. The reason this bridge was always so important was that it connected the castle past of town to the city’s old town.
Prague Castle is in fact, more like a walled, medieval village, rather than one singular castle. Inside these walls are some of Prague’s most famous architectural masterpieces. Combined into compound, this mini-city was named, “Prague Castle”.