Prague Astronomical Clock: Tickets

Prague Astronomical Clock Tickets and Information

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• Prague Astronomical Clock Address: Staroměstské nám. 1, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia
• Opening Times: Monday: Closed. All Other Days: 09:00 - 22:00

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Is the Prague Astronomical Clock worth visiting

• It’s the world’s oldest operational astronomical clock, so we definitely think so, yes!

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What do you see when visiting the Prague Astronomical Clock‍

• The famous 600-year old clock
• Enjoy views from the top of the tower
• Watch the clock perform with its hourly dance

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About the Prague Astronomical Clock

The Prague Astronomical Clock (called the ‘Prague Orloj’ in Czech), is one of the most famous mediaeval astronomical clocks in the world. The clock sits in the Old Town Square and is an iconic symbol of the city and one of its most popular tourist attractions.

The clock was built by clockmaker Mikuláš of Kadaň and astronomer Jan Šindel and first installed in 1410, making it one of the oldest astronomical clocks still in operation. It has had several renovations and repairs over time, but its basic structure and functions remain intact.

The clock consists of three main components:

• The astronomical dial (which displays various astronomical details, including the position of the Sun and Moon in the sky, as well as other celestial information).
• The "Walk of the Apostles," is a procession of wooden sculptures of the Apostles, which move when the clock strikes the hour.
• The calendar dial (features medallions representing the months of the year)

The clock not only tells the time but also provides information about the position of celestial bodies and various astronomical events. It was designed to show the mediaeval understanding of the universe, which includes a geocentric model where Earth was believed to be the centre of the universe.

The clock is not only admired for its technical complexity but also for its artistic beauty and has become a symbol of Prague and is often featured in photographs and artwork depicting the city.

Like many historical landmarks, the clock has its share of legends and folklore. One such legend claims that the clockmaker was blinded after completing the clock to prevent him from creating a similar masterpiece elsewhere. However, historical evidence does not support this particular legend!

What the Prague Astronomical Clock does show is just how remarkable the mediaeval craftsmanship and scientific knowledge was, and how it continues to fascinate visitors from around the world with its beauty and complexity still to this day!

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Fun and Interesting Facts About the Prague Astronomical Clock

• Oldest Operating Astronomical Clock: The Prague Astronomical Clock, known as the Orloj, is the oldest astronomical clock in the world that is still operational. It was installed in 1410, making it over 600 years old.
• Astronomical Functions: The astronomical dial displays several different time zones and cycles, including Central European Time, Old Czech Time, Babylonian Time, and sidereal time. It also shows the current phase of the Moon and the Sun's position in the zodiac.
• The Skeleton's Role: One of the clock's most famous figures is a skeleton, representing Death. Every hour, the skeleton rings a bell, reminding onlookers of the passage of time and their own mortality.
• Hourly Procession of Apostles: Every hour between 9 AM and 11 PM, the clock features a procession of the Twelve Apostles. The Apostles appear at the windows above the clock, blessing the crowd below.
• A Survivor of War: The clock was heavily damaged during World War II, particularly during the Prague Uprising of 1945. The wooden statues were destroyed, and the clock's mechanism was severely damaged by fire. It was painstakingly restored after the war.