Have you ever heard of the famous Prague Astronomical Clock? This magnificent clock is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Prague, attracting thousands of visitors every year. But the question on everyone’s mind is, “Is the Prague Astronomical Clock working?”
What is the Prague Astronomical Clock?
The Prague Astronomical Clock, also known as Orloj, is a medieval astronomical clock located in the heart of Prague’s Old Town Square. It was first installed in 1410 and has been ticking away for over 600 years.
The clock features an intricate design that includes astronomical dials, an hourly show of figures representing death and vanity, and a calendar dial with medallions that represent each month. The clock also features an astrolabe, which displays the position of the sun and moon.
Is the Prague Astronomical Clock Working?
Yes! Despite its age and occasional maintenance issues, the clock is still ticking away. In fact, it was recently restored in 2018 after months of repairs.
While there have been times when parts of the clock have stopped working or needed repairs, it is always quickly fixed so that visitors can continue to enjoy its beauty and functionality.
Maintenance Issues
Over time, parts of the clock can become worn out or damaged. For example, in 1945 during World War II, German soldiers shot at the clock tower causing significant damage to several parts.
In more recent years, there have been issues with accuracy due to variations in temperature and humidity. The last major repair was completed in 2018 when a team worked for months to restore many parts including replacing some with new ones made using traditional methods.
The Hourly Show
One of the most popular features of the Prague Astronomical Clock is its hourly show. Every hour on the hour from 9 am to 11 pm, a procession of figures appears, including the Twelve Apostles and a skeleton representing death.
However, in recent years there have been some issues with the show. In 2018, the clock was temporarily shut down so that a new motor could be installed to ensure that the figures move smoothly and without interruption.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Prague Astronomical Clock is indeed working and continues to be one of Prague’s most popular tourist attractions. While there have been maintenance issues in the past, the clock is always quickly repaired so that visitors can continue to enjoy its beauty and functionality. So if you’re planning a trip to Prague, don’t miss out on this amazing piece of history!