What Is the Famous Clock in Prague?

By Anna Duncan

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a city that is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. One of the most famous landmarks in Prague is the Astronomical Clock, which is located in the Old Town Square. This clock has a long and fascinating history and attracts tourists from all over the world.

What Is the Astronomical Clock?

The Astronomical Clock is a medieval clock that was first installed in 1410. It is located on the southern wall of the Old Town City Hall and consists of three main components: an astronomical dial, a calendar dial, and a procession of figures.

The Astronomical Dial

The astronomical dial is one of the most impressive features of the clock. It shows various astronomical details such as positions of celestial bodies, equinoxes, sunrises and sunsets times, phases of moon etc.

The Calendar Dial

The calendar dial displays the date and month. The months are represented by zodiac signs while lunar phases are shown in smaller windows on this dial.

The Procession of Figures

Every hour, visitors can observe an extraordinary spectacle; when twelve apostles appear in two windows above the astronomical dial. There are also four figures standing beside it; Vanity (holding a mirror), Greed (holding a bag with money), Death (a skeleton holding an hourglass) and Turk (a man holding a mandolin).

History of The Astronomical Clock

The original clock was built by clockmaker Mikuláš from Kadaň with help from astronomer Jan Šindel in 1410. Since then it has undergone several renovations due to damages caused by wars and natural calamities.

In 1945 when Prague was liberated from Nazi occupation at end of World War II, the clock was severely damaged as German soldiers tried to blow it up. The clock was later restored in 1948.

Conclusion

The Astronomical Clock is not only a beautiful piece of medieval engineering but also an important symbol of Prague. It is an excellent example of the city’s rich cultural heritage and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Prague. So if you’re planning a trip to this beautiful city, make sure to add the Astronomical Clock to your list of places to visit!

  • Tip: To avoid crowds, try visiting early in the morning or later in the evening.
  • Tip: There are guided tours available for visitors who want more information about the clock’s history and features.

Overall, the Astronomical Clock is a stunning piece of art that has stood the test of time and will continue to be a symbol of Prague’s rich cultural heritage for many years to come.