Timeless Wonder of the Old Town – My Visit to the Prague Astronomical Clock

#mytraveldiary Standing proudly on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall, the Prague Astronomical Clock (Orloj) is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and one of the oldest working astronomical clocks in the world. First installed in 1410, it remains a living testament to medieval engineering, artistry, and the fascination with time, astronomy, and symbolism. ⸻ Ambience & Atmosphere Every hour, crowds gather in Prague’s Old Town Square to witness the clock’s famous procession of the Twelve Apostles. The anticipation builds as the skeleton figure of Death rings a bell, signaling the hourly show. The medieval architecture surrounding the square, combined with the lively hum of street performers, café chatter, and tourists, creates an atmosphere that feels both historic and celebratory. Even when not in motion, the clock itself is mesmerizing, its intricate dials and golden details gleaming in the daylight. ⸻ What It Offers & Highlights • The Astronomical Dial – A stunning display that shows the position of the Sun and Moon, zodiac signs, and Old Czech time. • The Apostles’ Procession – On the hour, small wooden figures of the Apostles appear in the two windows above the clock. • Symbolic Figures – Around the clock are allegorical statues, such as Vanity admiring itself in a mirror, Greed clutching a moneybag, and Death striking the hour. • Tower Viewpoint – Visitors can climb (or take the elevator) up the Old Town Hall tower for panoramic views over Prague’s Old Town rooftops and the square below. ⸻ Practical Tips • Location: Old Town Square, Prague 1, Czech Republic. • Hours: The hourly show runs from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Tower access has separate visiting hours. • Admission: Watching the clock from the square is free. Tower admission is around CZK 250, offering access to the interior and viewpoints. • Best Viewing: Arrive a few minutes before the hour to secure a good spot—afternoons are especially crowded. ⸻ Why It’s Worth Visiting • Historic significance: One of the oldest astronomical clocks still operating, blending science, art, and legend. • Cultural spectacle: The hourly Apostle procession is a tradition that has drawn visitors for centuries. • Unforgettable views: The climb to the tower rewards visitors with some of Prague’s most photogenic panoramas. ⸻ The Prague Astronomical Clock is more than just a timepiece—it’s a living monument that embodies the city’s medieval spirit, captivating visitors with both its artistry and its enduring connection to the rhythm of time.