Are you planning a trip to Prague and wondering where you can find the famous Astronomical Clock? Look no further! This iconic landmark is located in the heart of Prague’s Old Town Square.
History of the Astronomical Clock
The Astronomical Clock, also known as the Orloj, is a medieval clock located on the southern side of the Old Town Hall Tower. It was first installed in 1410, making it one of the oldest working clocks in the world.
Legend has it that the clock was created by Master Hanuš, a renowned clockmaker, who was blinded by city councilors to prevent him from replicating his masterpiece elsewhere. In revenge, Master Hanuš damaged the clock’s mechanism, and it took many years to repair.
The Astronomical Clock’s Features
This remarkable timepiece is not just an ordinary clock; it also contains several fascinating features:
- Astronomical Dial: The main attraction of the clock is its astronomical dial, which displays various astronomical information such as sunrises and sunsets, positions of celestial bodies, and even zodiac signs.
- The Walk of the Apostles: Every hour from 9 am to 11 pm, a procession of twelve apostles appears from two small windows above the astronomical dial. Each apostle represents a different virtue.
Below the astronomical dial is a calendar dial with medallions representing each month. This feature was added during a restoration in 1865.
Finding the Astronomical Clock
If you’re in Prague’s Old Town Square, you can’t miss the Astronomical Clock! It is situated on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall Tower, facing the square.
Address: Old Town Square 1/3, 110 00 Praha 1-Staré Město, Czechia
Getting There
To reach the Astronomical Clock:
- By Public Transport: Take the metro to Staroměstská station (Line A) or tram numbers 2, 17, or 18 to Staroměstská stop.
- On Foot: If you’re staying in the city center, it’s a short walk from most hotels and other attractions.
Important Tips
To fully enjoy your visit to the Astronomical Clock:
- Arrive Early: The clock attracts a large number of visitors throughout the day. To avoid crowds, try to arrive early in the morning or late in the evening.
- Climb the Tower: For a small fee, you can climb to the top of the Old Town Hall Tower for a panoramic view of Prague’s skyline.
In Conclusion
The Astronomical Clock is not only an impressive timekeeping device but also a symbol of Prague’s rich history and craftsmanship. Make sure to visit this magnificent landmark during your trip to Prague and experience its unique features firsthand!