Between Myth and Reality
The Palindromic Number Sequence
One of the most famous legends is tied to the very moment the foundation stone was laid. It is said that Charles IV, known for his deep interest in mysticism, numerology, and astrology, set this act for a precise time: July 9, 1357, at 5:31 AM.
This date and time form a remarkable palindromic sequence of odd numbers: 1-3-5-7-9-7-5-3-1 (year 1357, 9th day of the 7th month, at 5 hours and 31 minutes). This magical numerical sequence was intended to bring the bridge good fortune, extraordinary strength, protection from natural disasters, and eternal durability.
Favorable Astrological Constellations
The legend further states that at this moment, the astrological constellations were exceptionally favorable. All then-known planets were said to be above the horizon, the Sun, Mercury, and Saturn were in conjunction, and the Sun was in the ascendant of the Leo sign, which is the heraldic symbol of the Czech Kingdom.
Historical Skepticism and the Power of Legend
Although this legend is incredibly captivating, some historians, such as Jan Royt, question the possibility of determining time so precisely in the 14th century, when time was measured more in whole hours. Some sources even suggest that the bridge's position is not the result of astrological considerations.
On the other hand, Charles's fascination with esoteric teachings was well-known, and thus an effort for a symbolically significant founding date is very probable. The exact minute could have been added to the legend later, for example, based on the numerological theory of astronomer Zdeněk Horský from the 1970s.
Whatever the historical truth may be, the legend itself perfectly reflects medieval thinking, where astrology and numerology played a significant role in all aspects of life, including such monumental construction projects. The persistence of this tale testifies to how deeply the Charles Bridge is connected with mysticism and how people long to find a deeper, symbolic order in historical events.
Even if the magic formula didn't work perfectly – the bridge has been seriously damaged by floods several times during its existence – faith in its power could have boosted the morale of both the builders and the inhabitants of Prague in its time.
Eggs in the Mortar: Truth, or a Clever Tale?
The Legend of Eggs for Stronger Mortar
Another very popular legend associated with the construction of the Charles Bridge claims that raw eggs were added to the mortar to increase its strength and durability. According to the tale, eggs were brought from all over the Czech Kingdom to ensure a sufficient quantity for such a magnificent structure.
Humorous Anecdotes from Velvary and Unhošť
Connected with this legend is a humorous anecdote about the inhabitants of the town of Velvary, who, in an attempt to prevent the fragile cargo from breaking during transport, sent hard-boiled eggs to Prague, thereby earning the ridicule of the entire city. Similarly, the people of Unhošť supposedly erred by delivering cottage cheese and olomoucké syrečky (a type of strong-smelling ripened cheese) instead of milk, which was also said to have been added to the mortar.
Scientific Debunking of the Myth
This colorful legend, however, has been subjected to scientific scrutiny. In 2010, experts from the University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, conducted a detailed analysis of samples of the original mortar from the Charles Bridge. The results of the analyses did not confirm the presence of eggs in the mortar. What's more, they concluded that adding eggs in a technologically relevant amount would actually reduce the strength and stiffness of the mortar.
The Real Ingredients: Milk, Wine, and Roman Mortar
Research, on the other hand, has shown that milk and wine were poured over the mortar during construction. The most surprising finding, however, was that the mortar used was identified as so-called Roman mortar, the recipe for which had been considered lost for centuries with the fall of the Roman Empire.
The legend of the eggs, although proven false, may have served an important social function in its time – strengthening the sense of community and participation of the entire kingdom in such a significant and prestigious project. It is a typical example of folklore that often attaches itself to exceptional structures and events.
However, the scientific debunking of this myth does not reveal a weakness of medieval builders, but rather their actual and no less admirable technological advancement, evidenced by the use of sophisticated Roman mortar.
Knight Bruncvík and His Miraculous Sword
The Legend of Bruncvík and the Lion in the Coat of Arms
A heroic legend about the Czech Prince Bruncvík is also connected to the bridge. According to the tale, this mythical hero set out into the world to obtain a lion for the Czech coat of arms instead of the existing eagle. During his adventures, he acquired not only a loyal lion but also a magical sword that, at his command, would cut off the heads of enemies by itself.
The Sword Hidden in the Bridge for the Kingdom's Salvation
The connection of this legend to the Charles Bridge is key. Before his death, the wise Prince Bruncvík was said to have had his miraculous sword walled up directly into the bridge's structure. It is supposed to be hidden there for centuries and to appear only when the Czech Kingdom is in its direst need.
At that moment, knights led by St. Wenceslas are to ride out from Blaník Mountain. As they cross the Charles Bridge, St. Wenceslas's white horse will stumble and, with its hoof, dig Bruncvík's magical sword from the pavement. In the hands of the heir to the land, this sword will then smite the heads of all enemies of the Czech lands.
The Statue of Bruncvík on a Pillar
On one of the pillars of the Charles Bridge, somewhat aside from the main row of statues, stands a statue of Knight Bruncvík (sometimes identified with the figure of Roland, a symbol of municipal rights and freedoms). The original Gothic statue, possibly the work of Matěj Rejsek from the 15th century, was damaged during the Thirty Years' War.
Today's statue is newer, created by Ludvík Šimek in 1884. The legend of Bruncvík's sword is a powerful symbol of hope and protection for the Czech lands in times of peril. Its connection with the Charles Bridge further strengthens its role as a guardian and heart of the nation.