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You hear the crowd before you see the clock. Phones pointed skyward. Eyes locked on an old tower in Prague’s Old Town. I’ve stood in that crowd more times than I can count, and honestly, I still don’t get tired of the show. The Astronomical Clock, or Orloj, is strange, beautiful, and somehow still accurate - over 600 years later. It's one of the stops you can experience with the StoryHunt immersive audiowalk through Prague.
What is the story behind the Astronomical Clock?
The Astronomical Clock was installed in 1410, making it the third-oldest in the world and the oldest one still working. It was designed by clockmaker Mikuláš of Kadaň and astronomer Jan Šindel. Its purpose wasn’t just to tell time. It reflected a medieval understanding of the cosmos, combining astronomy, astrology, and the Christian calendar into one epic mechanical performance.
What does the astronomical clock do?
Every hour, from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., the clock springs to life. A tiny window opens, and the Twelve Apostles glide past, one by one. Around them, figures like Death, Vanity, and Greed move with eerie charm. Below, a rooster crows and the hour chimes. It's theatrical, short (about 45 seconds), and completely captivating. Especially the first time you see it.
How does an astronomical time clock work?
The clock actually has three layers:
- The Astronomical Dial: Shows time, position of the sun and moon, and zodiac signs.
- The Calendar Dial: Represents the months with painted medallions.
- The Moving Figures: Symbolic characters triggered by the mechanical hourly show.
Everything is driven by an intricate gear system powered by gravity and weights. For a 15th-century creation, it’s surprisingly precise - and still mechanically operated.
What time does the astronomical clock start?
The first show begins at 9:00 a.m., and the final one runs at 11:00 p.m. on the hour. Crowds gather about 10 minutes early, especially in high season, so if you want a front-row spot, plan accordingly. For fewer people and better photos, I recommend catching the show in the early morning or just after sunset.
Why is the Astronomical Clock in Prague famous?
Besides being one of the oldest working clocks in the world, it’s famous for its strange beauty and the mechanical parade of saints that has entertained visitors for centuries. It’s also deeply tied to Prague’s identity. Located on the Old Town Hall, the clock has witnessed revolts, coronations, Nazi bombings, and Velvet Revolution celebrations - all ticking quietly through history.
Is it worth seeing the Astronomical Clock?
Yes. But it’s even better when you know what you’re looking at. The show lasts under a minute, but the details reward close attention:
- The skeleton ringing the bell? That’s Death.
- The man with a mirror? Vanity.
- The rooster at the end? A symbol of resurrection.
- And those tiny saints? Each one unique, each one symbolic.
It’s theatrical storytelling hidden in gears and wood. And still pulling crowds six centuries later.
What else is nearby the Astronomical Clock?
You're in Old Town Square, surrounded by some of the best that Prague has to offer. Here's what I always include when walking with friends or exploring with the StoryHunt audio walk:
- Celetna Street: A charming baroque shopping street full of cafés, puppets, and architecture.
- Powder Tower: A climbable Gothic gate at the edge of Old Town, marking the start of the Royal Route.
- Charles Bridge: A short walk down Karlova Street. Lined with saints and packed with history.
- John Lennon Wall: Across the river in Lesser Town. A colourful, ever-changing canvas of art and rebellion.
Everything is easily walkable - Old Town is compact and made for slow exploration.
