Legion Bridge
Prague Map Tour for the Deaf Community
Popis: Legion Bridge (Most Legií) is an elegant multi-arch bridge connecting Národní Avenue (passing over Shooters' Island) with the Malá Strana (Lesser Town) district. Situated right next to the National Theatre, it offers stunning views of both Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. History & Predecessor: It stands on the site of the former suspension Chain Bridge of Emperor Francis I (the second oldest bridge in Prague after Charles Bridge). As it could no longer handle the heavy traffic at the end of the 19th century, it was replaced by the current stone bridge, opened in 1901 in the presence of Emperor Franz Joseph I. Architecture: The bridge is a masterful blend of Neo-Baroque and Art Nouveau styles. It stretches 343 meters (1,125 feet) across the Vltava and consists of 9 flat granite arches designed by architect Antonín Balšánek and engineer Jiří Soukup. Toll Booth Towers: On both ends of the bridge, you can see distinct decorative stone towers. In the early days, these served as booths for collecting tolls. Turbulent Names: Reflecting Czech history, the bridge changed names multiple times. Originally named after Emperor Francis I, it became the Legion Bridge in 1919. During the Nazi occupation, it was renamed Smetana Bridge, and under Communist rule, it was called the 1st of May Bridge, before reclaiming its current name after the Velvet Revolution in 1990. Shooters' Island: From the middle of the bridge, a staircase and an elevator lead down to Shooters' Island (Střelecký ostrov), a lush green park perfect for relaxation, romantic walks, and open-air events.
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