Historic, gaslit lamps to illuminate Prague's Charles Bridge from today

From today, classic, gaslit lamps will light up Charles Bridge for the next two months as reconstructive work on the 667-year-old bridge takes place. The planned restoration aims to revitalize the bridge's current lighting system, making it more energy-efficient and modern.

According to Technology of the Capital City of Prague (THMP) association spokesperson Simona Kopová, work will involve replacing non-functional parts of the lighting system damaged by a storm back in 2022. 

The project will also include dismantling and replacing outdated discharge lamps with modern LED-based light sources. The entire project is expected to cost nearly CZK 6 million and should be complete by Nov. 30.

The restoration project will see 182 lights replaced on the Charles Bridge, including almost 100 in the bridge arches and over 60 lights illuminating the sculptures. 

THMP board member Tomáš Jílek explained that the project will require unique methods such as ropework, the use of boats, and diving and climbing to complete.

Municipal Councilor for Infrastructure Michal Hroza emphasized Charles Bridge's importance as a global monument and its significance to Prague.

"The lighting of its sculptures and bridge arches completes the unique backdrop of the Prague panorama, which will be even more special after the overhaul," said Hroza.

The use of the latest generation of light sources is expected to reduce lamp-failure rates, and the demand for their service and maintenance. This will also reduce overall electricity consumption, making the project beneficial for the environment.

Prague has a long history of lamp-lighting on Charles Bridge and gas lights in general. Every year at Advent, a man dressed in First Republic-era attire lights gas lamps on the bridge at sunset. Gas lamps have also been used to light the city's parks and streets since 1847. At the height of their usage in 1940, there were more than 9,000 gas lamps in the Czech capital.

In 2002, Prague City Hall initiated a project to bring back traditional gas lighting in the historic center. By 2010, the lights on Charles Bridge were converted back from electricity to gas, making it the world's only bridge lined by gas lamps.