The Astronomical Clock

The ancient Czech capital of Prague’s views are undeniably breathtaking at any time of the year, and it boasts a rich history as well. While I was wandering around the Old Town, I noticed a crowd staring at something - I knew I was nearing the famous Astronomical Clock.

Before visiting Prague, I had seen some pictures online, but seeing the clock with my own eyes was like a fairytale come true.

The medieval Astronomical Clock, or Prague Orloj, is mounted on the southern wall of Old Town Hall in the Old Town Square. The clock was first installed in 1410, making it the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still operating!

Every hour, hundreds of tourists gather in front of the Old Town Hall to enjoy the fascinating mechanical performance. The clock is a treasure that amazes people with its presentation: the procession of the Apostles, moving statues, and a visualization of time like no other instrument in the world.

The astronomical clock consists of many different parts – such as a calendar and an astronomical desk or the mechanism of twelve apostles which sets them in motion.

When the clock strikes the hour (from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM), the procession of the Twelve Apostles sets in motion. During the Apostles’ parade, the other figures placed on the sides of the astronomical clock are set in motion as well. The skeleton rings rotate an hourglass in order to show to the Turk that his lifetime is at the end. He shakes his head. The Vain Man and the Miser behave similarly.