The Prague astronomical clock, also known as the Prague Orloj, is a medieval astronomical clock located in the Old Town Square of Prague, Czech Republic. It is one of the most famous and oldest astronomical clocks in the world. The clock has been in operation for over 600 years and continues to amaze visitors with its intricate design and accuracy.
How Often Does the Prague Clock Chime?
The Prague astronomical clock chimes every hour on the hour. It also chimes once every half hour.
Therefore, visitors can expect to hear a chime from the clock every 30 minutes. The chime is a beautiful sound that can be heard throughout the Old Town Square.
The History of the Prague Astronomical Clock
The Prague astronomical clock was first installed in 1410 by clockmakers Mikuláš of Kadaň and Jan Šindel. The clock was later rebuilt by master Hanuš in 1490. Since then, it has undergone several renovations and restorations due to damage caused by fires, wars, and natural disasters.
The clock has three main components: the astronomical dial, representing the position of the sun and moon in relation to Earth; “The Walk of the Apostles,” a procession of figures that appears hourly; and a calendar dial with medallions representing each month.
The Walk of the Apostles
One of the most fascinating features of the Prague astronomical clock is “The Walk of the Apostles.” At every hour, a small trap door opens at the top of the clock, and Jesus Christ appears while four figures flanking him start moving. These figures represent vanity (a figure holding a mirror), greed (a figure holding a bag), death (a skeleton), and lust (a figure holding an apple).
After this display, twelve apostles appear from two windows above “The Walk of the Apostles” and move in a procession. Each apostle appears for a few seconds before disappearing back into the clock.
The Symbolism of the Prague Astronomical Clock
The Prague astronomical clock is not just a timepiece but also a work of art that contains various symbols and meanings. The astronomical dial, for example, represents the position of the sun and moon in relation to Earth and also displays zodiac signs.
The Walk of the Apostles is also rich in symbolism. The procession represents time passing, with each apostle appearing for a few seconds before disappearing back into the clock. It is also said that the apostles represent different aspects of life, such as youth, old age, wealth, poverty, and death.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Prague astronomical clock is one of the most fascinating clocks in the world. It chimes every hour on the hour and every half hour.
Its intricate design and symbolism make it an important cultural landmark in Prague. Visitors from all over the world come to see this clock every year and witness “The Walk of the Apostles.”
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The Astronomical Clock in Prague is a fascinating medieval clock located in the Old Town Square. It is not only a popular tourist attraction but also an important historical and cultural symbol for the city. The History of the Astronomical Clock
The Astronomical Clock, also known as the Prague Orloj, was first installed in 1410 by clockmaker Mikuláš of Kadaň and astronomer Jan Šindel.
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