Olomouc Astronomical Clock, Czech Republic
Walking hand in hand with my kids through the vibrant streets of Olomouc square a loud sound of bell ringing filled the air. Our eyes darted towards the source of the enchanting chimes, and there it was – the Olomouc Astronomical Clock. The clock stood tall and proud, adorned with intricate details and an air of timeless elegance. We saw its little drama twice that evening we were there.
Astronomical Clocks of Europe
My kids had read about astronomical clocks and they were keen to see the clocks. Often our walking tours would be planned along the path that had astronomical clocks. At Olomouc too we were walking through the streets searching for the famed one.
Other names for astronomical clocks are: Horologium and Orloj. These clocks have special mechanisms and dials to display astronomical information, such as the relative positions of the sun, moon, zodiacal constellations, and sometimes major planets.
I had blogged two other unique clocks before:
- One in Switzerland: Zytglogge, Bern’s clock tower
- other in Austria: Anchor Clock of Vienna.
Captivating History of the Olomouc Astronomical Clock
The existence of the clock dates back to 1519. This marvelous creation emerged during a time when craftsmanship and scientific curiosity flourished. Each cog, each handcrafted detail, is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of those who brought this magnificent creation to life.
Through the years, the clock has witnessed the ebb and flow of Olomouc’s fortunes, surviving wars, political changes, and the tests of time.
The quaint appearance of today’s clock does not resemble its ancient history or its artistic and scientific value in any way. In the past its moving figures were richly decorative and attracted attention by their musical accompaniment and colorfulness.
Legend of Olomouc’s Iconic Timepiece
An interesting legend I came to know goes thus:
the Olomouc Astronomical Clock possesses mystical powers, transcending mere timekeeping. Tales are whispered among locals, speaking of its ability to grant wishes to those who truly believe. Whether it be the dreams of a hopeful child or the aspirations of a weary traveler, the clock’s magic lingers in the hearts of those who dare to dream.
Evolution of Elegance: The Transformations of Olomouc Astronomical Clock
Modifications in 1573-1575 – The first documented mention is that the clock was restored and improved during the first major renovation in 1573-1575. At the time, the astronomical clock displayed the medieval concept of the cosmic order, closed into a Gothic side altar with paintings and sculptures and the moving figurines, with drums and musical arrangements were combined with paintings on wood panels.
Modifications in 1661-1662 – enrichment of the clock’s painting with the inclusion of wall murals depicting the Seven Liberal Arts on the inner walls of the niche.
The lower part of the clock still bore Fabricius’ pointing targets with four smaller indicators on the sides. Their faces indicated quarter hours, full hours, the planets and the signs of the day, plus the “unequal hours”. On the lower calendar, an angel showed the day of the year.
The central part of the clock held a glockenspiel, above which was a royal portrait while the very top bore a semi-recumbent sculpture of the goddess Luna. The side “wings” of the clock were enlivened by groups of mechanical puppets. On the left stood St. Wenceslas, with St. George on horseback chasing a dragon around him. Above them, a monk tended a rosary in his hand at the chime of the hour, and a hermit pulled the bell. The right side displayed the Madonna and Child, adorned by the circling Three Kings. Above the group, a Renaissance cavalier accompanied by a bugler served as bell ringer.
Modifications in 1746-1747 – Last major renovation of the astronomical clock based on the belief that the sun and planets rotated around the earth. This was the work of a clockmaker, organist, the Olomouc Baroque painter Jan Kryštof Handke. On the lower front face, Handke confidently painted a watchmaker and a painter as the two main originators of the entire work; believed to be of the master’s self-portrait.
In 1800, the clock stopped for eleven years, then after temporary repairs stood still again until 1898. At this point, during the peak of the period of historicist architecture, the clock gained its romantic appearance, which significantly disrupted its artistic and technical originality for the first time. The new clock, executed by the company of Eduard Korfhage, now showed a planetary system based on the heliocentric system of orbits.
Olomouc Astronomical Clock repaired after WWII
Modifications in 1947-1955 – The original clock got destroyed in WWII bombing. The final and complete erasure of the clock’s remaining historical value as an artistic monument was brought about by Karel Svolinský in 1947-1955. Nestled within the intricate design of the clock, a beloved character emerged: Neználek, known to many as Dunno, in his very own Sun City, populated with joyous workers, athletes, and farmers. The clock’s moving figures were carved by Svolinský’s wife, Marie. The glass mosaics with the themes Ride of the Kings, Procession of Maidens, Laborer, Chemist, and allegory of the twelve months were added by the Česká Mozaika national enterprise in Nový Bor based on Svolinský’s drawings.
Olomouc Astronomical Clock is unique because of its socialist look.
Other Olomouc Tourist Attractions
After you have seen the enchanting Olomouc Astronomical Clock discover the other must-visit tourist attractions in Olomouc, a city steeped in history and culture. From magnificent cathedrals to captivating museums, here are some must-visit tourist attractions in Olomouc:
- Archdiocesan Museum: Delve into the rich religious heritage of Olomouc at the Archdiocesan Museum. It houses a remarkable collection of religious art and artifacts, providing insights into the city’s spiritual legacy.
- Holy Trinity Column: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Holy Trinity Column is a monumental masterpiece. Marvel at its intricate Baroque design, adorned with statues and reliefs, symbolizing the city’s gratitude for surviving the devastating plagues of the past.
- Marian Plague Column: Pay homage to the city’s resilience at the Marian Plague Column. This striking Baroque monument commemorates the end of a devastating plague, serving as a symbol of hope and faith.
- St Moritz Cathedral: Immerse yourself in architectural splendor at St Moritz Cathedral. Its awe-inspiring Gothic facade and breathtaking interior, including the ornate organ and beautiful stained glass windows, create a serene ambiance.
- Regional History Museum: Uncover Olomouc’s fascinating past at the Regional History Museum. From archaeological artifacts to historical documents, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through the city’s evolution.
- Museum of Modern Art: Embrace contemporary art at the Museum of Modern Art. Discover thought-provoking exhibitions showcasing works by local and international artists, and gain new perspectives on modern artistic expressions.
- Town Hall: Step into the Town Hall, a splendid Renaissance building, and witness its historic charm. Climb the tower for panoramic views of Olomouc, and admire the intricate astronomical clock, a marvel of engineering.
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That is stunning, my friend. How you educate me!
A beautiful building and some very great details. Lovely shots.
Wow! What an amazing clock. That second picture of it is so pretty. Like high tech from an earlier era.
Awesome…
mumbaiflowerplaza.com
Wow! so much details on the clock.
I'm an artist, so the mosaics are amazing to me! Have a great week, Jesh.
I also love the moasaics…what a lot of work and the clock and video are great…thanks for sharing with us. Always something new and interesting over here.
The mosaics amaze me. What an interesting clock.
This is truly different and really fascinating because of that! I really enjoyed seeing it. It's beautiful too, but the social commentary is so interesting historically.
This is a fascinating clock, even if the figures are not of the original type. The ingenuity that went into creating the original clock is amazing.
Love those clocks that have moving tableaux!! Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.
Such amazing details. You never fail to show something wonderful.
What a beautiful clock, in a tessellated way, thanks Indrani. It shows that is a socialist look.
Indrani, what a cool clock. It was neat to watch the movement on the video. Thanks for sharing, Have a wonderful week!
Indrani, what a cool clock. It was neat to watch the movement on the video. Thanks for sharing, Have a wonderful week!
Good pictures and a eye for details, very well done Indrani.
Greetings, Joop
How interesting! Very clever to construct such a clock! Your photos are so beautiful and your explanation is very clear.
Thank you!
I love those beautiful pictures with an interesting astronomical clock. Greetings.
This is so amazing. I could hear the sounds so crisp and clear!
Isn't it amazing that each country has wonderful way of showing us fascinating clocks?
Nisha – Le Monde-A Poetic Travail
That must have been a great experience, that too with dramatic layman actions!
Interesting . Thanks for sharing .
This was very interesting. The history of the clock with its new look after world war II adds to the interest. Great shots.
What an interesting clock!
how politics shapes expression! Fascinating-
Aloha from Honolulu
Comfort Spiral
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The clock in Olomouc is amazing! Thank you for including the video. The sound is wonderful!
A fascinating clock indeed! I loved the video and your marvelous captures as always, Indrani! I really find the changes made in the clock by the Russians to be very interesting and such a sign of the times then! Hope your week is off to a good start! Enjoy!
Sylvia
wow! interesting clocks!