Prague Astronomical Clock: Popular Medieval Landmark

Yet another memorable medieval astronomical clock of Europe we stumbled on in the main square of the old town of Prague. A wonderful piece of engineering, it is a wonderful combination of mechanical engineering and art!

The Prague astronomical clock, known as Prague Orloj (Pražský orloj), is a medieval marvel affixed to the façade of the Old Town Hall in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. Installed in the year 1410, Prague Clock stands as the third-oldest astronomical clock globally and remains the oldest clock still in operation today.

These medieval era clocks are not ordinary ones that just tell the time. They show the relative positions of the Sun, Moon, Zodiac constellations and, sometimes, other planets, hence called astronomical clocks. Do compare this clock of Prague to the one in Bern Switzerland: Walking Tour of Bern

Prague Clock Tower

History of Famous Clock in Prague

The oldest component of the Orloj, comprising the mechanical clock and astronomical dial, traces its origins back to 1410. Crafted by clockmaker Mikuláš of Kadaň and Jan Šindel, a professor of mathematics and astronomy at Charles University, the clock was initially mentioned on 9 October 1410. Around 1490, the calendar dial was introduced, and the clock facade was adorned with gothic sculptures.

Contrary to earlier beliefs attributing the construction to clockmaster Jan Růže (Hanuš) in 1490, this has been recognized as a historical error. According to legend, recounted by Alois Jirásek, Hanuš was allegedly blinded by the Prague Councillors to prevent him from replicating his work. In retaliation, Hanuš disabled the clock, remaining unrepaired for a century.

In 1552, the Orloj underwent restoration by Jan Táborský (1500–1572), the master clockmaker from Klokotská Hora. Over the centuries following the 1552 restoration, the clock experienced numerous periods of malfunction, prompting multiple repairs to keep it in working order.

There were so many additions and modifications over the years since it was first installed in 1410. The colorful lower calendar dial was added in 1490. Gothic statues were added to build character around the clock one by one. Between 1629 and 1659, the wooden statues were installed. During a major facelift between 1787 and 1791 apostle statues were added. The clock tower’s iconic golden crowing rooster was added in around 1865.

Citizens of Prague took utmost care to maintain the clock in a working condition fearing that if the clock were to get spoilt the city would suffer. But during the Second World War the inevitable happened when the old town square of Prague was bombed. With lot of effort, the damaged machinery was repaired. Wooden Apostles restored by Vojtěch Sucharda, and the Orloj started ticking again in 1948.

Prague Astronomical Clock

Recent History and Repairs of the Clock in Prague

During the Prague uprising on May 7 and 8, 1945, the Orloj endured significant damage as Nazi forces targeted the south-west side of the Old Town Square. Armored vehicles fired upon the area in a failed attempt to quell the uprising, resulting in the destruction of nearby buildings, including the hall, and the wooden sculptures adorning the clock and calendar dial crafted by Josef Mánes. Despite the devastation, diligent efforts led to the repair of the machinery and restoration of the wooden Apostles by Vojtěch Sucharda, allowing the Orloj to resume its operation in 1948.

In autumn 2005, the Orloj underwent another renovation, focusing on the restoration of the statues and the lower calendar ring. To deter pigeons, the wooden statues were shielded with a protective net.

The most recent renovation of the astronomical clock occurred from January to September 2018, coinciding with the reconstruction of the Old Town Tower. As part of the refurbishment, the original clock mechanism from the 1860s replaced the electric mechanism installed in 1948, ensuring the preservation of the Orloj’s historic authenticity and functionality.

Description of Parts of The Orloj Clock

In order to provide this level of functionality, its mechanism is split into several distinct parts. The Orloj clock mechanism could be possible as it is composed of three main components:

The lowest part and the most impressive part of the clock. It is the calendar dial, a colorful and attractive golden circle with various painted medallions. Each one represents the calendar months with various figures in fields to indicate the months and seasons. There is another smaller set of images displayed closer to the center, each of them representing each of the signs of the zodiac.

Parts of Orloj Clock

Astronomical dial represents the position of the Sun and Moon in the sky and displays various astronomical details. It is a form of the mechanical astrolabe which was commonly used in medieval timekeeping and astronomical studies.

The clock’s face displays lot of information provided you are able to decipher it. Downloading the picture I could see more details. The outer ring if you notice is a series of glyphs that are representative of ancient Czech time. At the center, the Roman numerals are clearer. They, of course, indicate 24 hour time.

Blue and red colors within the main plate indicate events like sunrise, daybreak, daytime, night time etc. They also include geographical information like the location of tropics and the equator. Center of the dial indicates the Earth, i.e. the observer.

Superimposed on the main astrolabe is the Zodiacal ring that displays the various signs of the zodiac. It marks the location of the Sun on the ecliptic. These zodiac signs are shown in anticlockwise order.

Encircling the clock’s perimeter, golden Schwabacher numerals stand out against a black backdrop. These numerals signify Old Czech Time (or Italian hours), with 24 marking the time of sunset—a moment subject to seasonal fluctuations, ranging from as early as 16:00 in winter to as late as 20:16 in summer. Throughout the year, the ring oscillates to align with the shifting sunset times, ensuring accuracy. Spanning an outer diameter of approximately 300 cm, this dynamic feature harmonizes the clock’s display with the natural rhythm of daylight.

Prague Astronomical Clock dial

Animated figures on the Clock in Prague

The animated figures surrounding the clock offer a captivating glimpse into the values and vices of the time when the clock was crafted. Positioned from left to right, each figure symbolizes a despised aspect of society during that era. Kids around had fun time identifying each.

There are eight characters that make the functioning of the astronomical clock very interesting. Four of the characters, stationary statues, represent four ‘evils’ or ‘vices’ two on either side. One of the evil figures is a skeletal figure representing death. Four more that represent four ‘virtues’ are in the lower calendar dial. They are a philosopher, an angel, an astronomer and a chronicler.

The third component is a calendar dial with medallions representing the months.

First, there’s Vanity, embodied by a figure gazing admiringly at himself in a mirror, representing the obsession with appearance and self-importance. Next in line is the miser, clutching a bag of gold, epitomizing greed and usury, traits frowned upon by society.

Opposite the clock, Death, depicted as a striking skeleton, tolls the hour, reminding observers of mortality and the passage of time. Lastly, a Turkish figure embodies lust and earthly pleasures, reflecting societal disdain for indulgence and hedonism.

Prague Astronomical Clock Walk of the Apostles

Functioning of the third Oldest Astronomical Clock

The Walk of the Apostles, is a clockwork hourly dramatic show of figures of the Apostles and other moving sculptures. Two windows open as the hour strikes and the apostles march, halt for a second, look out of the window and then march again. One of them is a figure of Death (represented by a skeleton) striking the time… warning everyone that they are an hour closer to death. As the clock strikes the hour, the skeleton bell-ringer initiates a ritual: all figures, including the Apostles, shake their heads, signifying their reluctance “to go” when confronted with mortality’s call.

Speaking of the Apostles, every hour brings a unique spectacle: the Twelve Apostles, each identified by their respective attributes, emerge from the doorways above the clock. With the left and right windows sliding aside, the Apostles reveal themselves in a particular sequence, offering a visual treat for onlookers. However, notably missing from the canonical gospel list are James the Great and Matthew, replaced instead by Paul and Barnabas, a curious deviation from tradition that adds intrigue to the clock’s symbolism and historical context.

We were so awestruck by the whole functioning of the clock that we decided to return after an hour to see the old town square Prague Clock again.

Orloj Praha Czech Republic

Hidden messages in the Prague Astronomical Clock

During the refurbishment works in January 2018, a remarkable discovery was made within the sculpted figures of the Prague Astronomical Clock. Among the iconic Apostles that grace the clock’s top windows hourly, one statue, that of St. Thomas, stood out for its unexpected weightiness.

Upon closer inspection, restorers detected a mysterious anomaly within St. Thomas: a concealed metal case containing a hidden message. Intrigued, they carefully removed the case and unveiled a literal message from the past, inscribed by sculptor Vojtěch Sucharda.

Commissioned to restore the sculptures post-World War II, Sucharda’s message revealed his grander vision for the Astronomical Clock, lamenting the conditions of the era, including the onset of communism, and expressing his unrealized aspirations for the clock’s restoration. This extraordinary find offers a fascinating glimpse into the clock’s storied history and the artistic intentions of its creators.

The restoration work also uncovered some other hidden features of the clock tower dating back to around the 15th Century. Several stone creature sculptures were uncovered in the corners under the calendar dial behind some timbers.

Clock in old town Prague

FAQ topics on the Orloj Praha:

What is the Prague Astronomical Clock?

The Prague Astronomical Clock, also known as the Prague Orloj, is a medieval astronomical clock located in the Old Town Square of Prague, Czech Republic. It is one of the most famous and oldest astronomical clocks in the world.

When was the Prague Astronomical Clock built?

The clock was first installed in 1410, making it the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest clock still in operation.

What is the significance of the Astronomical Clock in Prague?

The Prague Astronomical Clock is a symbol of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. It represents the medieval craftsmanship and scientific advancement of its time and serves as a popular tourist attraction.

How does the Prague Astronomical Clock work?

The clock consists of various dials and displays that track the positions of the sun, moon, and stars, as well as astronomical events such as sunrise and sunset. It also features animated figures that perform hourly.

What are the legends and myths associated with the Prague Astronomical Clock?

Legends suggest that the clockmaker was blinded to prevent him from replicating his masterpiece, and that the clock will bring misfortune if neglected.

Has the Prague Astronomical Clock undergone renovations or restorations?

Yes, the clock has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries to preserve its historical and architectural significance.

What is the significance of the figures on the Prague Astronomical Clock?

The figures represent various themes such as Vanity, Greed, Death, and Lust, reflecting the values and vices of the time period.

Is there a best time to visit the Prague Astronomical Clock?

The best time to visit is during the hourly displays, when the clock’s figures come to life and perform their mechanical dance.

Can visitors tour the interior of the Prague Astronomical Clock?

Unfortunately, the interior of the clock is not open to the public for tours. However, visitors can enjoy the exterior and witness its hourly performances.

Are there any hidden secrets or messages associated with the Prague Astronomical Clock?

During a recent renovation, a hidden message was discovered inside one of the statues, shedding light on the clock’s restoration history and the challenges faced by its craftsmen.

You may Like These:

• Olomouc Astronomical Clock
• Anker Clock, Ankeruhr Vienna
• Collection of Clocks, Jodhpur

Pin this for later