The clock's astronomical dial is its most striking feature, displaying the Sun and Moon’s positions, stars, and zodiac signs. The zodiac ring showcases intricate depictions of the twelve signs, while golden spheres represent the Sun and Moon’s movement. Every hour, the clock delights visitors with animated figures, including the Twelve Apostles and Death, in a captivating display of motion and symbolism.
Prague Astronomical Clock highlights
The clock dial
The calendar
At the bottom of the clock face lies the calendar dial, which displays the date, month, and the current phase of the Moon. The dial is adorned with detailed medallions featuring zodiac signs and various saints. It tracks the date around its circumference, marking annual events like each Saint’s Feast Day. Each month is represented by a zodiac sign, elegantly placed within a medallion.
Allegorical figures
The clock showcases allegorical figures symbolizing humanity's virtues and vices. Among them are a skeleton representing Death and an angel symbolizing purity. Other figures depict the vices of vanity, greed, and lust. Additionally, the ‘Walk of the Apostles’ features a procession of twelve apostles who appear in the windows above the astronomical dial every hour. As the clock strikes the hour, the figures move and nod their heads, while the figure of Death marks the time.
The viewpoint
You can choose between winding ramps or a modern elevator inside the tower. The ramps offer a leisurely ascent, allowing you to admire the tower’s interior, while the elevator provides a faster route to the top. Once there, you'll enjoy stunning panoramic views of Prague, with landmarks like the Lady of Tyn church standing out, as the city unfolds before you like a vibrant, living tapestry.
The medieval interiors of Old Town Hall
Step inside Old Town Hall to explore its medieval interiors, which include historic halls, a Gothic chapel, and access to the underground chambers that were used as prisons in medieval Prague. These spaces tell the story of Prague's political and cultural history, offering a deeper understanding of the city beyond the clock.
Exhibits on the clock’s history
The Old Town Hall features interactive exhibits that explain the clock's history, engineering, and cultural significance. Learn about its creators, including Mikuláš of Kadaň and Jan Šindel, and the restoration efforts that have kept this medieval wonder operational for over 600 years.
