Prague Astronomical Clock

The Prague Astronomical Clock, known as the Orloj, is a medieval engineering marvel located on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall. Installed in 1410 by Mikuláš of Kadaň and Jan Šindel, it is the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still in operation. The clock consists of three main elements: the astronomical dial, the calendar dial, and the famous hourly show of moving figures. Every hour, the figures of the Twelve Apostles appear in the windows above the clock, accompanied by the figure of Death tolling a bell. According to legend, the clockmaker Hanuš was blinded after completing the work to ensure he could never replicate such distinctive craftsmanship. Despite suffering damage during World War II, the clock was meticulously restored and continues to captivate visitors from across the globe. It stands as more than just a timepiece; it is a symbol of Prague's enduring history and the sophisticated fusion of medieval science and art. The Orloj remains the beating heart of the Old Town Square, representing centuries of craftsmanship.

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