Discover the Magic of Prague’s Astronomical Clock – History, Tips & More

Standing proudly on the Old Town Hall Tower, the Astronomical Clock (Orloj) in Prague, Czech Republic, is one of the oldest and most intricate timepieces in the world. Every hour, crowds gather in Old Town Square to witness the charming "Walk of the Apostles" — but there’s much more to this 600-year-old marvel than its moving figurines.
 

Whether you're a lover of history, art, science, or storytelling, the Prague Astronomical Clock is a must-see highlight of your visit to the Czech capital.

🕰️ A Glimpse into the History of the Astronomical Clock

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

Key Historical Milestones:

1410: Master clockmaker Mikuláš of Kadaň and astronomer Jan Šindel designed the original mechanism.

1490: The calendar dial and gothic decorations were added by Master Hanuš.

1865–1866: Josef Mánes painted the beautiful calendar plate.

World War II: The clock was damaged during the Prague Uprising but was meticulously restored.

💡 Legend has it that the original clockmaker was blinded to prevent him from replicating the design elsewhere — adding a touch of dark romance to its mythos.

🔍 How the Astronomical Clock Works

This medieval engineering marvel tells far more than just the time. It actually comprises three main components:

1. The Astronomical Dial

Displays:

Central European Time

Old Bohemian Time

Babylonian Time (variable hours)

Positions of the Sun and Moon

Zodiac signs

It’s a complex way of presenting the movement of celestial bodies — stunningly accurate even after centuries.

2. The “Walk of the Apostles” (Moving Figures)

Every hour (from 9 AM to 11 PM), a small door opens above the dial, and a procession of 12 apostles rotates past, blessing the crowds.

Accompanying figures:

Death (skeleton) rings a bell

Vanity (a man with a mirror)

Greed (a moneybag-holding miser)

The Turk (symbolizing pleasure or infidelity)

⏱️ Pro tip: Arrive at least 10 minutes before the hour to get a good viewing spot — especially during peak seasons!

3. The Calendar Dial

Below the main astronomical dial, this rotating plate shows:

Current date and day

Church holidays and saint names

Zodiac signs and Czech country symbols

The illustrations by Josef Mánes make this a masterpiece in its own right.

📍 Location & Surroundings

Address: Old Town Square 1, 110 00 Staré Město, Prague
The Astronomical Clock is mounted on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall Tower, which itself is worth exploring for panoramic views over the red rooftops of Prague.

Nearby landmarks within walking distance:

Old Town Square (Týn Church, Jan Hus Monument)

Charles Bridge

Jewish Quarter

Klementinum and Prague Library

🕵️ What to Look for When Visiting

✅ Best Times to Visit:

Early Morning (before 10 AM) for fewer crowds

Evening visits offer magical lighting

Christmas season for festive vibes and lights

📸 Photography Tips:

Capture the entire tower with the crowd for dramatic effect

Use a telephoto lens for details of the dial and statues

Night shots with the clock lit up are spectacular!

🏰 Climb the Old Town Hall Tower

Don’t just look at the clock — go inside the Old Town Hall and climb to the top (via elevator or stairs) for:

A behind-the-scenes look at the clock’s mechanism

An incredible 360° view of Prague

Exhibits on the town hall’s history and architecture

🎫 Tickets: Combo passes available for the tower and guided tours. Booking online is recommended during peak seasons.

🎉 Events & Shows

During special holidays, such as:

New Year’s Eve

Christmas

Saint Wenceslas Day

The Astronomical Clock becomes a centerpiece for light shows and cultural celebrations in the square.

🧭 How to Get There

🚇 By Metro:

Line A to Staroměstská station (5-minute walk)

🚍 By Tram:

Tram lines 17, 18 to Staroměstská

🚶 On Foot:

A short walk from Charles Bridge or Wenceslas Square

🍴 Where to Eat Nearby

After watching the hourly show, explore the vibrant Old Town’s culinary offerings:

Top Picks:

U Prince Rooftop Bar – cocktails with a direct view of the clock!

Maitrea – cozy vegetarian restaurant

U Zlateho Jednorozce – traditional Czech food with medieval decor

🧁 Street food vendors often sell Trdelník (a sweet chimney cake) nearby — a perfect snack while exploring.

🏨 Where to Stay Near the Astronomical Clock

Staying in the Old Town means you’re close to all major attractions.

Top Hotel Options:

Grand Hotel Praha – directly across from the clock!

Hotel U Prince – historic charm and rooftop views

MOODs Charles Bridge – boutique comfort near the river

✅ Quick Travel Tips

The hourly show is brief (~45 seconds), but packed with symbolic meaning.

Beware of pickpockets in crowded square areas.

The clock is most beautiful at sunset and nighttime under warm lighting.

There are free walking tours that begin near the square and include Orloj history.

💬 Final Thoughts – Why the Astronomical Clock Should Be on Your Prague Bucket List

The Prague Astronomical Clock is more than a mechanical wonder — it's a storyteller in gears and bronze, chronicling the soul of a city that has seen wars, revolutions, and rebirth. Whether you admire its intricate engineering, snap a selfie during the apostle parade, or ponder the zodiac on the calendar dial, this one-of-a-kind timepiece will leave you enchanted.

If you visit only one attraction in Prague’s Old Town Square, make it the Orloj — it’s where art, science, and legend align perfectly on the hour, every hour.