Prague’s Charles Bridge is getting a careful, weeks-long clean-up aimed at protecting the landmark’s historic stone masonry from algae, biological deposits, and unwanted vegetation.
The city’s Technical Road Administration (TSK) began exterior maintenance work that will focus on the bridge façade and piers. Because some areas are difficult to reach, crews will use professional rope access techniques, working suspended along the outside of the bridge. Lower sections of the piers will be treated from boats on the Vltava River.
City officials say the work is planned to avoid disrupting pedestrians and nearby activity, even during peak tourist season. “Charles Bridge is close to our hearts and a significant symbol of our city that has endured for centuries. Its maintenance requires absolute precision,” said Prague’s first deputy mayor, Jaromír Beránek.
The cleaning is being done largely by hand. Algae and biological buildup will be removed using water under controlled pressure, nylon brushes, and wooden scrapers. A chlorine-free treatment is also being used.
For crews who maintain or restore stone masonry, the bridge work is a reminder that removing growth is not just about appearance. Vegetation can take hold in joints, drive deeper root systems, and create ongoing damage if it is not handled the right way. In areas where plants or shrubs have grown between stone blocks, workers will open the joints to a depth of 2 to 3 centimeters, remove the roots, and then reseal those locations with traditional lime mortar.
All methods and materials are being closely supervised and coordinated with heritage conservation authorities. Work is limited to isolated sections of the exterior, and the bridge will remain fully accessible throughout the project.
Read the full, original article from Prague Daily News here.