The mortar used in the bridge's construction reportedly included egg whites, a medieval technique intended to harden the binding agent.
The bridge features six figures of saints, most of which were sculpted in the early 18th century.
It is the oldest existing stone bridge in Poland and is recognized as a protected architectural monument.
Despite its age, the structure remained largely undamaged during the massive 1997 flood that caused widespread destruction in Kłodzko.
The statue of St. John of Nepomuk, the patron of bridges, was added in 1714 as a votive offering.
The Bridge of St. John in Kłodzko, also known as the Gothic Stone Bridge, is a 14th-century structure spanning the Młynówka canal. It is often called the 'Little Charles Bridge' due to its resemblance to Prague's famous landmark, featuring sandstone statues of saints along its balustrades. Constructed between 1286 and 1390, it remains one of the oldest stone bridges in Poland. The bridge was built to connect the town center with the island district of Piasek. It survived the catastrophic 1997 flood which devastated much of the surrounding city infrastructure. The original statues, including those of St. John of Nepomuk and St. Francis Xavier, were added in the 18th century to protect the city from natural disasters. The structure is built from sandstone blocks reinforced with egg whites in the mortar to ensure structural integrity. It functions as a pedestrian-only thoroughfare today, preserved as a significant monument of medieval civil engineering.
From the riverbank level on the Piasek island side, looking up toward the bridge with the fortress in the background.
Walk across the bridge slowly to appreciate the fine details of the baroque sculptures.
Combine your visit with a walk through the historic Old Town streets directly adjacent to the bridge.
Visit during the evening to see the bridge illuminated by period-style street lamps.
Do not attempt to climb or sit on the pedestals of the historic statues, as this is prohibited and risks damaging the delicate sandstone.
