The Astronomical Clock

The astronomical clock of Prague

The Prague audio-guided tour takes you before one of the oldest astronomical clocks in Europe, and certainly the most famous in the world. It is neither its size nor its architecture that make it exceptional, but the colourful treasure that adorns the south façade of the town hall.

A masterpiece of the fifteenth century

Created in the fifteenth century, the clock does not merely tell the time: it also indicates the position of the moon and the sun among the constellations, in a mechanism of fascinating complexity for its time. Over the centuries, it has been restored and enriched, becoming one of the symbols of Prague and a testimony to the astronomical and horological genius of the Czech Middle Ages.

What there is to see

On each striking hour, the clock comes to life and gathers hundreds of spectators: the twelve apostles parade at the windows, while allegorical figures, including the famous Death holding an hourglass, come to life. The lower dial, adorned with an illustrated calendar, completes this unique spectacle. It is one of the most prized attractions of the Old Town Square.

Practical information

The astronomical clock is on the south wall of the old town hall, on the Old Town Square, in Prague. It can be contemplated freely from the square, at all hours and on the level. The animation of the automatons takes place every hour; the climb of the tower follows its own conditions and hours.

When does the Prague astronomical clock date from?

It was created in the fifteenth century, which makes it one of the oldest astronomical clocks in Europe and the most famous in the world.

What happens every hour?

The twelve apostles parade at the windows and allegorical figures come to life, drawing hundreds of spectators to the square.