If you’re planning a visit to the Czech Republic, one of the must-see attractions is the Astronomical Clock in Prague. Located in the heart of the city’s Old Town Square, this medieval clock has been ticking since 1410, making it the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest still in operation.
The clock not only tells time but also displays astronomical and zodiacal information. Every hour from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., the watch comes to life as the procession of the Twelve Apostles sets in motion. This unique feature draws crowds of tourists daily, eager to witness the intricate movements of the clock’s figures.
Aside from its historical significance and impressive mechanics, the Astronomical Clock symbolizes Prague’s rich cultural heritage. It has survived wars, revolutions, and even fire, standing as a testament to the city’s resilience and enduring beauty.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a unique experience, the Astronomical Clock in Prague is a must-see attraction that will leave you in awe!
Historical Milestones of Prague’s Clock Tower
Iconic Astronomical Clock Tower in Prague’s Old Town Square, ©Kukovec / Unsplash
Medieval Mastery
The Astronomical Clock in Prague, also known as the Orloj, is a historical marvel that dates back to the medieval era. The clock was installed in the Old Town Hall in 1410, making it over 600 years old.
It was created by master clockmaker Mikuláš of Kadaň in collaboration with Jan Šindel, a professor of mathematics and astronomy at Charles University. The oldest part of the clock, the mechanical watch, and the astronomical dial were created in the same year by Mikuláš of Kadaň and Jan Šindel.
The clock tower itself is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It features intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the tower’s facade. The tower’s clock face is also a work of art, with its intricate design and detailed astronomical features. The Astronomical clock is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of medieval European clockmakers.
Moments That Shaped History
Over the centuries, the Prague Astronomical Clock has witnessed many significant events in the city’s history. During the Prague Uprising in 1945, the clock tower was damaged and had to undergo extensive repair and restoration work. The clock was also injured during the 2010 floods but was quickly repaired.
In 1490, improvements were made to the clock, and Master Hanuš added a calendar plate. The plate displays the day, month, year, and position of the Sun and Moon. At midnight, the calendar plate constantly shifts to the next day.
Throughout its long history, the Prague Astronomical Clock has been a symbol of the city’s pride and ingenuity. It remains one of Prague’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors worldwide to marvel at its intricate design and historical significance.
Prague Clock’s Architectural Wonders
Stunning astronomical clock in Prague, ©Maciejewski / Shutterstock
The Prague Astronomical Clock is a marvel of medieval engineering and design. The clock tower is adorned with intricate Gothic statues, and the clock itself is an impressive sight to behold.
Astronomical Dial
The astronomical dial is the most prominent feature of the clock. It shows the position of the Sun and Moon in the sky, as well as the stars and zodiac signs.
Astronomical dial displaying the Sun, Moon and zodiac signs, ©vicspacewalker / Shutterstock
The zodiacal ring is an imposing feature, with its detailed depictions of the twelve zodiac signs. The Sun and Moon are represented by golden spheres moving around the dial as the day progresses.
Calendar Dial
The calendar dial is located at the bottom of the clock face. It shows the date, month, and phase of the Moon. The dial is adorned with intricate medallions depicting the zodiac signs and various saints.
Calendar dial of Prague’s iconic astronomical clock, ©Nguyen / Shutterstock
The Astronomical Clock in Prague is a stunning example of medieval engineering and design. Its features and precise timekeeping have captivated visitors for centuries.
Symbolic Mechanics
The Astronomical Clock in Prague is adorned with intricate statues, ©Hunter / Unsplash
The Prague Astronomical Clock, or Orloj, is a fascinating machinery combining astronomical and figurative elements. Here’s a breakdown of its mechanics and symbolism:
Clock Mechanism
The clock mechanism has three main components: the astronomical dial, the statues of various Catholic saints, and “The Walk of the Apostles,” an hourly show of moving Apostle figures and other sculptures. The astronomical dial, which represents the position of the Sun and Moon in the sky, displays various astronomical details.
It is a form of the mechanical astrolabe, which was commonly used in medieval timekeeping and astronomical studies. The clock mechanism also includes a legend, an hourglᴀss, a miser, and a chronicler.
The legend, written in Latin, tells the story of the clock’s creation and the clockmaker, Master Hanuš. The hourglᴀss represents the pᴀssage of time, while the miser symbolizes greed. The chronicler, on the other hand, describes the importance of recording history.
Allegorical Figures
The clock also features allegorical figures representing humanity’s vices and virtues. The statistics include a skeleton representing Death and an angel, which means purity. The other figures represent the vices of vanity, greed, and lust.
Astronomical clock in Prague featuring the skeleton and musician virtues, ©Tatiana / Shutterstock
The Walk of the Apostles is a procession of twelve apostles that appear in the windows above the astronomical dial every hour. The figures move and nod their heads while the formation of Death strikes the time.
Astronomical Functions
The Prague Astronomical Clock is a timepiece and a complex astronomical instrument that displays astronomical information. The clock has two main dials, one showing the time and the other displaying the astronomical data.
Timekeeping
The clock’s timekeeping function is accurate to within a few seconds per day. The time is displayed in Czech and Central European times, using Roman numerals to indicate the hours.
The clock also displays the position of the Sun and the Moon in the sky, as well as the sidereal time, which is based on the rotation of the Earth relative to the stars.
Astrological Aspects
The astronomical dial displays several astrological aspects, including the signs of the Zodiac and the position of the Sun, Moon, and stars.
The zodiac is divided into 12 signs, each representing a different constellation. The position of the Sun in the zodiac indicates the current season, while the part of the Moon tells the current phase of the Moon.
The clock also displays the position of the stars in the sky, with the Staroměstský Orloj showing the part of the stars relative to the horizon. The clock’s astrolabe indicates the role of the Sun and the Moon in the sky, as well as the status of the stars relative to the horizon.
Cultural Significance
Town Hall Tower displaying the iconic Astronomical Clock, ©Trumpeter / Shutterstock
The Prague Astronomical Clock is not only a mechanical masterpiece but also has immense cultural significance for the people of Prague. It represents the city’s rich history, scientific achievements, and artistic heritage. This section will explore the legends and myths surrounding the clock and its influence and recognition in Europe.
Legends and Myths
The clock has been the subject of many legends and myths. One of the most famous legends is that of the clockmaker Hanuš, who was blinded by the city councilors after he had finished building the clock so that he could not build another one. However, Hanuš avenged by breaking the clock and making it impossible to repair for many years.
Another legend tells the story of a Turk hired to climb and fix the clock tower. The Turk, however, had other plans and tried to sabotage the clock. He was caught and executed, and his ghost is said to haunt the clock tower to this day.
Influence and Recognition
The clock has also played a significant role in European history. It measured time and astronomical details and symbolized the city’s wealth and power. Today, the clock is recognized as a masterpiece of medieval engineering and is a popular tourist attraction.
The clock has been featured in many films and TV shows, including the movie “Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.” It has also been the subject of many works of art, including paintings and sculptures.
The clock is now housed in the Prague City Museum, where visitors can learn more about its history and significance. It is also used as a teaching tool at Charles University, where students can study its intricate mechanisms and learn about its cultural significance.
