On the west side of Křižovnické náměstí is the Old Town Bridge Tower, the grand entrance to the Charles Bridge. Commissioned by Roman Emperor Charles IV and designed by Petr Parléř, this late 14th century, Gothic gate is among the finest in Europe. The Latin inscription above the arch was a dire warning to potential attackers. “Be told and watch out; he who touches me dies.” The sandstone Staroměstská mostecká věž stands 154 feet. Climb the 138 steps for a magnificent view of Old Town, Charles Bridge and the vista across the Vltava river.
