The Astronomical Clock

As you explore Prague, you’ll quickly notice that towers aren’t what’s missing in this city. Only one’s worth remembering, and it’s this one. Why so? It’s not its size nor its architecture that make it exceptional, but the colorful treasure adorning one of its façades. Ladies and gentlemen, you are standing before one of the oldest astronomical clocks in Europe, and certainly the most famous in the world. Made in the 15th century, this clock doesn’t only tell time. Its exceptional mechanism also tracks the position of the sun and moon among the zodiac constellations, all thanks to an intricate system of dials. Other than the remarkably precise calendar, what’s really interesting is what happens every hour, from 8 AM to 8 PM on the dot, when the clock comes alive. As the chimes ring out, the 12 apostles appear in contrast to the allegorical figures of Greed, Vanity, and Death, standing on either side of the monument. With such a beautiful view, this clock is known to everyone way beyond the Czech borders. Full of mystery, legend says that the master clockmaker who redesigned it in 1490 was betrayed by the city council. Fearing that he might replicate his masterpiece elsewhere, they blinded him to ensure it remained unique. Thirsty for revenge, it is said that he cursed the clock, dooming to madness anyone who dared to repair it, or worse, sending them to an early grave. Of course, like most legends, the truth remains uncertain. For those who want to get a better view of the Old Town, you can buy a ticket to climb to the top of the tower.