Prague's Charles Bridge gets new lighting, with each statue set to shine

Prague's iconic Charles Bridge will look a little different at night by the end of the year. A comprehensive new lighting system has been installed on one of the city's most famous landmarks, which includes new illumination for each of the bridge’s statues.

Installation work on the lighting system has been finished, with final adjustments set to be completed by the end of the year. The project, led by the municipal lighting operator THMP, is part of a broader revitalization effort for the bridge's illumination system.

The lighting overhaul involved replacing 182 fixtures across the bridge, with particular focus on the statues and arches. The final stage of the project includes fine-tuning the intensity of the lighting on each statue, ensuring they are individually showcased without compromising the bridge’s overall integrity.

“This update brings a new dimension to the beauty of the Charles Bridge, especially during the Advent season,” said THMP board chairman Tomáš Jílek through a press release. He highlighted the unique challenges of the installation, which required divers and climbers to access difficult-to-reach areas.

“Thanks to the collaboration of city officials, conservationists, and lighting experts, we’ve delivered an upgrade that respects the bridge’s historical significance,” Jílek added.

In addition to aesthetic improvements, the new lighting system brings increased energy efficiency and reduced maintenance needs. According to Prague infrastructure councilor Michal Hroza, the enhancements will lower operational costs while preserving the bridge’s heritage.

The total cost of the project came to CZK 6.36 million. Lighting for the statues is set to be turned on by the end of 2024, though THMP has not specified an exact date.

As the year ends, THMP technicians will finalize the statue lighting settings, with approval from the Prague Heritage Department. Next year, the system will be further upgraded with remote control and monitoring capabilities, allowing real-time adjustments and diagnostics.

"Charles Bridge is a stunning monument on a global scale. The lighting of its statues and bridge arches completes the unique backdrop of the Prague panorama, which will be even more exceptional after the general renovation," Prague City Councilor Michal Hroza stated when launching the project.

"The use of the latest generation of light sources will reduce the failure rate of the fixtures, lower the demands for their service and maintenance, and another significant benefit will be an overall reduction in energy consumption."

The Charles Bridge project is part of THMP’s broader mission to modernize Prague’s public infrastructure while maintaining its historical allure. The company also manages citywide public lighting, landmark illuminations, and other urban technologies.

Before the new lights turn on, visitors can also enjoy the return of a traditionally dressed lamplighter this Advent season. The lamplighter will light up the bridge’s historic gas lamps daily at 4 p.m. through Dec. 23.