Prague Astronomical Clock (Orloj) | A Moving Masterpiece Marking 600 Years of Time

⏰ Prague Astronomical Clock (Orloj) | A Moving Masterpiece Marking 600 Years of Time The sound of bells echoes across the square, drawing everyone's gaze to the wall of the Old Town Hall. It feels like the beginning of a medieval theater where time comes alive. Located on the eastern side of Prague's Old Town Square, the "Astronomical Clock (Orloj)" is the world's oldest functioning astronomical clock and a source of pride for the city. Its design and movements embody knowledge, faith, and artistry. ⸻ ■ What is this clock? • Year of installation: 1410 (Europe's oldest astronomical clock) • Location: South wall of the Old Town Hall • Mechanism: Three-tiered structure (from top to bottom: the Apostle procession, astronomical dial, and calendar dial) ⸻ ■ Highlight ① | The Mechanical Puppet Show (Hourly Ritual) At the top of every hour, the following sequence begins: 1. The Grim Reaper (skeleton) rings a bell. 2. Windows open, and the 12 Apostles appear one by one. 3. Puppets symbolizing vanity and greed humorously nod their heads. 4. The show concludes with the crowing of a rooster and the sound of bells. This spectacle lasts only about 30 seconds, but it’s a rare moment to witness a miracle that has been moving for over 600 years. ⸻ ■ Highlight ② | The Astronomical Dial (Central Circular Clock) • A complex structure showing the movements of the sun and moon, zodiac signs, and lunar phases. • Reflects a medieval geocentric view of the universe, with time displayed in "Bohemian Time." • A visual representation of the connection between the cosmos and humanity, unlike modern clocks. ⸻ ■ Highlight ③ | The Calendar Dial (Golden Disk at the Bottom) • A rotating disk marking agricultural calendars and saints' feast days. • Beautiful monthly illustrations showcasing intricate craftsmanship. ⸻ ■ Visitor Information • Admission: Viewing the clock itself is free (Old Town Hall tower access requires a fee). • Duration: Each show lasts 30 seconds to 1 minute. Plan your visit to coincide with the show. • Crowds: It’s especially crowded between 10 AM and 4 PM, so visiting at 9 AM or after 5 PM is recommended. ⸻ ■ Access • 5-minute walk from "Staroměstská" station on Metro Line A. • Located on the south side of Old Town Square, on the wall of the Old Town Hall. ⸻ ■ Travel Tips • The show occurs every hour (9:00 AM–11:00 PM). Arrive at the center of the square 5 minutes early. • There are explanatory plaques in Japanese and English below the clock—don’t miss them. • Use zoom mode on your camera to capture the expressions of the Apostles in detail. ⸻