Can a clock be magical? Here’s a story of the Prague Astronomical Clock; a timeless tale of science, art, and a little bit of magic.
In the heart of Prague City Center, amidst the Gothic spires and cobblestone streets, stands a marvel that has captured travelers’ attention for over six centuries – the Prague Astronomical Clock. It is locally known as the Prague Orloj. This medieval masterpiece isn’t just a timekeeper; it is a storyteller of Prague’s glorious past and the mysteries that surround it.
As you plan your journey, start by booking cheap flights to Prague with lowest airfares and get ready to witness one of the city’s greatest tourist attractions.
The History of Prague Orloj
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The Prague Astronomical Clock was built in 1410, and it is the oldest astronomical clock in the world that is still in operation. It was built by the clockmaker, Mikuláš of Kadaň and astronomer Jan Šindel, this clock has withstood wars, revolutions, and even a curse – or so legend says.
The clock comprises three parts: the astronomical dial, representing the movement of celestial bodies; the calendar dial, adorned with zodiac signs; and the famous hourly show of the twelve apostles. The Prague Astronomical Clock skeleton figure, representing Death, chimes the hour, a chilling reminder of time’s relentless march.
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Also Read: Czech Republic: The Castle Capital of the World
The Legend of Prague Clock Curse and Death
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Legends whisper of a Prague Clock Curse, tied to its master clockmaker Mikuláš of Kadaň. The legend goes like this, that city councilors were jealous and they blinded him to prevent him from replicating his masterpiece elsewhere. In his vengeance, he is said to have thrown himself into the gears, cursing the clock, causing the Prague Orloj to stop. For years, whenever the Prague Astronomical Clock stopped working, misfortune befell the city. The ominous figure of Prague Clock Death, with its rattling bones, adds to the eerie allure, making it one of the most fascinating places to visit in Prague.
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A Masterpiece of Science & Art
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The Astronomical Clock Prague time display is unlike any modern watch. It doesn’t just show hours and minutes; it tracks celestial movements, zodiac signs, and lunar phases, a true testament to medieval craftsmanship. The golden Sun and Moon move across the dial, reflecting their real-time positions in the sky, making the Prague Astronomical Clock in Prague City Center a living piece of history.
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Planning Your Visit: Prague Astronomical Clock Price & Tours
Witnessing this marvel is free, but for an in-depth experience, visitors can explore the interior of the tower. The Prague Astronomical Clock price for entry is (250 CZK approximately) €10, granting access to exhibitions on its history and spectacular city views.
From admiring the Orloj to exploring other things to do in Prague, your journey will be filled with wonder. Make the most of it with exclusive Prague tour packages at best rates. To make the most of your trip, opt for broader Europe tour packages to dive deeper into history and culture.
Centuries of stories embedded in its gears; the Prague Astronomical Clock awaits. Secure your Czech Republic visa with fees starting at INR 6,999/- with a stay period of up to 90 days.
Pro Tip: Since the Czech Republic country is one of 29 Schengen countries, your visa isn’t just for one destination – you can explore multiple European gems in one seamless journey on a single Schengen visa.
Also Read: Top Places to Visit in Europe on a Schengen Visa from India
FAQs – The Prague Astronomical Clock
What is so special about the astronomical clock in Prague?
The Prague Astronomical Clock, or Orloj, is one of the world’s oldest working astronomical clocks, first installed in 1410. It not only tells time but also displays astronomical and calendar-related details, such as the position of the Sun and Moon, zodiac signs, and medieval timekeeping.
What is the myth of the astronomical clock in Prague?
One of the most famous myths suggests that the master clockmaker, Mikuláš of Kadaň, was blinded by the Prague councilors to prevent him from replicating his masterpiece elsewhere. In revenge, he supposedly damaged the clock, rendering it nonfunctional for years. Some believe that the city will suffer if the clock ever stops working.
What time does Prague astronomical clock ring?
The clock rings every hour from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM. During this, the Procession of the Twelve Apostles occurs, where small statues of apostles appear from the upper windows, accompanied by moving figures such as the Skeleton (Death), the Turk, the Miser, and Vanity.
What is the curse of the clock in Prague?
According to legend, if the clock stops working, Prague will fall into misfortune. This belief stems from the myth of Master Hanuš, who, after being blinded, allegedly cursed the clock and the city before damaging its mechanism.
What is the myth about the clock in Prague?
One of the most famous myths suggests that the master clockmaker, Mikuláš of Kadaň, was blinded by the Prague councilors to prevent him from replicating his masterpiece elsewhere.
What is the controversy with the Prague clock?
One controversy arose during the 2018 restoration, when experts discovered that the new replica of the clock’s calendar dial was inaccurate compared to the original design. The modernized version altered the artwork and removed some historical details, sparking debate among historians and locals.
What is the controversy with the astronomical clock in Prague?
One controversy arose during the 2018 restoration, when experts discovered that the new replica of the clock’s calendar dial was inaccurate compared to the original design.
What is Prague famous for?
Prague is famous for its stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture, including landmarks like Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the Old Town Square. It’s also known for its rich history, vibrant nightlife, world-class beer, and, of course, the legendary Astronomical Clock, which is one of the city’s most iconic attractions.
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