How Do You Read an Astronomical Clock in Prague?
Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is famous for its rich history and stunning architecture. One of the most iconic landmarks in Prague is the Astronomical Clock, located in the Old Town Square.
This medieval clock has been captivating visitors since its installation in 1410. Reading this intricate timepiece might seem daunting at first, but once you understand its various components, it becomes a fascinating experience.
The Dial of the Astronomical Clock
The dial of the Astronomical Clock consists of several elements that help you read and interpret the time.
The Main Dial
The main dial of the clock displays both astronomical and civil time. The inner circle shows Old Czech Time (also known as Central European Time), while the outer circle indicates Babylonian time.
The Babylonian time divides each day into 24 equal parts, with each part representing one hour.
Zodiac Ring
Surrounding the main dial is a ring that represents the twelve signs of the zodiac. Each sign corresponds to a specific month and provides astronomical information about the position of celestial bodies throughout the year.
The Moving Components
Apart from reading time from its stationary dials, understanding how different moving components work is crucial to fully appreciate this extraordinary clock.
The Sun Hand
The golden hand on the main dial represents the position of the sun in relation to local noon. As it moves across various symbols on its journey through 24 hours, it tells you where you are in a day according to Old Czech Time.
The Moon Hand
The blue-colored hand depicts the position of the moon. It moves alongside the sun hand, showing the phase and age of the moon throughout its lunar cycle.
The Apostles
Every hour, a small window above the main dial opens, revealing a procession of twelve apostles. Each apostle appears briefly before disappearing back into the clock.
This spectacle draws crowds eager to witness this fine mechanical display.
Tips for Reading the Astronomical Clock
Here are some tips to help you make sense of this magnificent timepiece:
- Take your time: The clock has multiple dials and moving parts, so it’s essential to observe each element carefully.
- Understand Old Czech Time: Familiarize yourself with Old Czech Time and its relation to modern timekeeping before attempting to read the clock accurately.
- Visit during noon: If possible, plan your visit around noon when the Apostles’ Parade takes place. It’s a remarkable show that should not be missed.
The Astronomical Clock in Prague is not only a functional timepiece but also a work of art and engineering marvel. Its intricate design and historical significance make it an essential stop on any visit to Prague.
Be sure to take your time when admiring this masterpiece and appreciate the centuries-old craftsmanship that went into creating such an exceptional astronomical clock.