Visiting the Prague Astronomical Clock
The Prague Astronomical Clock is one of the most significant treasures of medieval Europe. Construction began in 1410, and the mechanism was refined over time, most notably by the master clockmaker Hanus. Legend suggests that to prevent the clock from being replicated in another city, local authorities had him blinded once the work was finished.
An extraordinary timekeeping device
The clock is located on the south wall of the Old Town Hall in Prague. It actually displays eight different types of time. Against a background representing the earth and sky at various points in the day, four moving components operate. The smallest represents the zodiacal circle, showing the current astrological sign and decan. Two hands track the positions of the moon and the sun. The outer rings of the dial indicate local time in Roman numerals and the old Czech time in Gothic numerals. The clock also displays solar time, lunar phases, and sidereal time.
A work of art that comes to life hourly
The clock has survived multiple threats, including an arson attempt by German troops in 1945. Renovations have slightly altered its structure, such as the miniatures that parade past until 9:00 PM every hour in a precise sequence. First, the twelve Apostles appear, followed by allegorical figures that animate around the dial: Death, the Turk, the vain man, the Miser, and finally, the rooster.
A second medallion, created in 1886 by the painter Josef Mánes and located below the clock, displays the annual calendar. It is illustrated with traditional scenes from daily life in Bohemia.
The clock itself is truly a must-see in the city. Its mechanism, its look (which you would think came straight out of a fantasy movie), and the legends surrounding it are worth the trip. But like everywhere else in Prague, the crowd of visitors, aka interchangeable photographers who are only there to feed their Instagram accounts, ruins the magic of the place. If you do not want to end up in the middle of a sea of tourists taking selfies, visit Prague in the off-season. Believe me, the city is absolutely worth it.