As Christmas approaches, Charles Bridge in Prague transforms into a living reminder of history. During December, both locals and visitors have the chance to experience the nearly forgotten tradition of lighting gas lanterns on Prague’s most iconic bridge.
Every evening from 1 to 23 December 2024, a lamplighter will be present on Charles Bridge to manually light 46 gas lanterns using an original lamppost from the late 19th century. This lamppost is on loan from the collection of the Prague Gas Museum (Plynárenské muzeum). The lantern lighters, dressed in historical uniforms, begin their task daily during the Advent season after 16:00.
The lighting of the gas lanterns starts at Křižovnické náměstí, where the first lantern is lit in front of the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. The route then continues along the right side of Charles Bridge towards Malá Strana (Lesser Town). At the end of the bridge, at the Malostranské mostecké věže (Lesser Town Bridge Tower), the lamplighter turns around and lights the gas lanterns on the opposite side, heading back towards the Old Town.
Gas lighting in Prague began in 1847 with the opening of the Karlín gasworks and reached its peak in 1940, before being gradually phased out due to the electrification of street lighting. However, gas lighting made a comeback in the early 21st century thanks to a project by the city council. At the end of 2010, gas lamps once again illuminated Charles Bridge, making it not only the only bridge in the world lit by gas but also the only one with its own lantern lighter.
Today, the romantic glow of the gas lanterns lights up the entire historic Royal Route, a popular tourist path stretching from Prašná brána (Powder Gate) to Hradčanské náměstí. Enjoy Advent on Charles Bridge and be enchanted by the charm of the gas lanterns and the traditional Old Prague ritual of lighting them.
