Charles Bridge to Dim for Two Months as Lighting Repairs Begin

Prague’s iconic Charles Bridge is undergoing a long-awaited lighting overhaul, expected to last until the end of November.

The public lighting system operator, THMP, has started a comprehensive restoration of the bridge’s illumination, aiming to repair damage caused by a 2022 storm.

Starting Monday, only the historic gas lamps lining the pedestrian pathway will light the bridge. Meanwhile, the statues and arches will remain dark as extensive repairs take place.

“We are also dismantling and replacing all the original lighting elements, such as outdated discharge lamps, which used to light the bridge’s arches and statues,” said Simona Kopová, a spokesperson for THMP.

The new lighting will use modern LED technology, designed to be more energy-efficient and allow for remote monitoring of any malfunctions.

The restoration, with an estimated cost of nearly CZK six million, is set to be completed by November 30.

The project involves the renewal of 182 lights on the bridge. These include almost 100 lights in the arches, 24 on the icebreakers, and over 60 that illuminate the statues. Due to the sensitive nature of the location, the removal and installation of the lights will require specialised techniques, including rope, boat, and diving work.

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