Legion Bridge

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The bridge was originally named Emperor Franz Joseph I Bridge before being renamed to commemorate the Czechoslovak Legionnaires.

2. 2

   It remains one of the few bridges in Prague that survived the extensive bridge-building era without being destroyed or needing complete structural reconstruction.

3. 3

   The two towers on the left bank were used for collecting tolls from bridge users upon its completion in the early 20th century.

4. 4

   The structure connects the bustling National Theatre area directly to the historic, quieter Malá Strana, allowing for a unique transit flow between urban zones.

5. 5

   Střelecký Island, accessible from the bridge, has been a public space for cultural events since the 19th century.

Overview

Legion Bridge (most Legií) is a granite bridge in Prague connecting the National Theatre to the Malá Strana district via Střelecký Island. It was constructed between 1898 and 1901 based on a design by Antonín Balšánek and Jiří Soukup. The bridge features two prominent towers at the Malá Strana end that originally served as toll houses. It is built in the Neo-Baroque architectural style. The bridge provides a direct crossing over the Vltava River, including a dedicated ramp for pedestrian access to Střelecký Island. It is part of the city's main tram and road infrastructure, linking the central business district to the historic quarter.

Insider tips

• Use the dedicated staircase or ramp located mid-bridge to visit Střelecký Island for a unique perspective of the river.

• Walk the full length of the bridge to observe the architectural transition between the Neo-Baroque details and the surrounding historic buildings.

• Be mindful of tram tracks as they run directly along the center of the bridge deck.