Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, has a famous attraction called the Astronomical Clock that has been working for over 600 years. It is located in Prague’s Old Town Square and is not just a regular clock. It is known for its beautiful design and intricate details, captivating the attention of many visitors who gather around it every hour to see its spectacle.
The Astronomical Clock is more than a timekeeping device; it is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and cleverness. It has many elements that make it interesting to observe. Even if you have learned about it before, seeing it in person is fascinating and transports you to another time. It was built during the medieval period, around six centuries ago, when clocks had more functions than just telling time.
The Astronomical Clock not only tells the time but also provides information about the positions of the moon and the sun, sunrise and sunset times, and important Christian holidays. It also displays the twelve zodiac signs through symbolic representations.
Created in 1410, the Astronomical Clock is the third oldest clock in the world and has various stories associated with it. According to legend, Master Hanus (or sometimes Mikulas of Kadan) combined three different clocks into one masterpiece under the order of the Czech king.