Prague Astronomical Clock travel guide

The Prague Astronomical Clock, or Orloj, is a medieval astronomical clock that dates back to 1410. This makes it the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still operating.

The clock was first installed on the southern wall of Old Town Hall in the Old Town Square. The clock mechanism itself has three main components: the astronomical dial, representing the position of the sun and moon in the sky and displaying various astronomical details; 'The Walk of the Apostles', a clockwork hourly show of figures of the Apostles and other moving sculptures; and a calendar dial with medallions representing the months.

The clock's fascinating history includes numerous repairs and restorations, as it has suffered various mishaps throughout the centuries, including significant damage in WWII. It was fully restored and started ticking again in 1948, and more recently, underwent extensive renovations in 2018.

The Prague Astronomical Clock is a marvel of medieval engineering, offering a unique visual spectacle with its intricate mechanics. The clock itself is divided into three main components: the astronomical dial, the Walk of the Apostles, and the calendar dial. The astronomical dial is a representation of the universe as it was understood in the 15th century, showcasing the Earth and sky, as well as important astronomical details. The Walk of the Apostles, which happens every hour, is a mechanical show where the twelve Apostles pass by the window above the clock. The calendar dial, adorned with medallions representing the months, rotates to align with the pointer to indicate the current date.

The clock also uses a unique time system, based on the 'Italian hours' system, where 24 signifies sunset and 1 starts after it. Moreover, the 'Golden Roman numbers' around the edge indicate Old Czech Time, which is based on the sun's position in the sky. The clock's exceptional combination of intricate mechanics, astronomical interpretation, and artistic design truly sets it apart, making it a must-visit landmark for any visitor to Prague.

Located in the dynamic Old Town, the popular Prague Astronomical Clock is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Prague or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through the Czech Republic.

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Prague Astronomical Clock is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Prague, the Czech Republic. If you're flying in, Václav Havel Prague Airport is approximately 7.2 miles (11.6 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Prague Astronomical Clock by taxi or shuttle.

Its exact address is Staroměstské nám. 1, 110 00 Praha 1-Staré Město, Czechia.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Prague Astronomical Clock!

The best time to explore Prague Astronomical Clock is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. The weather during these times is moderately warm and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing. Moreover, crowd levels are usually lower than in peak summer months, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. If you want to witness the clock chime on the hour with its procession of the Twelve Apostles, make sure to visit during the day, preferably before 9 PM. A special event to consider is the Easter festival in April, where the square around the Astronomical Clock becomes a vibrant marketplace filled with traditional Czech Easter crafts and food. Another unique experience is visiting on the hour after sunset, when the clock's beautiful illuminations create a magical spectacle. To avoid waiting in long queues, it's advisable to book a guided tour in advance, which often includes fast-track entry. Remember, the best time to explore Prague Astronomical Clock can vary depending on personal preferences, but these suggestions should help you plan an enjoyable visit.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Prague, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Prague Astronomical Clock.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic historical landmark in the Czech Republic.

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The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Prague below to discover even more incredible places to explore.