Prague’s Orloj (Astronomical Clock) – Oldest At Work

During our trip to Prague I was determined to see one historical piece of artifact; the Astronomical clock, Orloj. Although the third oldest clock in the world, it  is the oldest one still working — since 1410. This alone is a good reason for us to go about the city walking just to find it.

The colors of the sun falling on the tower of the town hall holding the clock was a welcome sight, it drew us nearer  – into the center of the Old Town.

Old Town

The Old Town is a fusion of old charm and modern  architecture. Look to the left and there are buildings with all the glorious spires. Look to the right and there’s your favorite coffee shop.

The area where the Orloj can be found is a busy plaza, at least when we went there. Tourists and vendors abound. There are those admiring the clock from below, clicking their cameras here and there- much like I did. Most of us where waiting for the clock to strike the hour and see the parade of the apostles — mechanical figures and hear the sound of a trumpet’s horn.

Others are waiting for their turn to go up the tower to see a view of the Old Town from above. I unfortunately wasn’t able to. They say you can also have a photo of the trumpet guy up there…I’m pretty sure the sun’s rays on those gothic buildings is much more magnificent when viewed from up above.

Orloj – a Precious Piece

The Orloj is considered a primitive planetarium, why not – it displays the current state of the universe with all those bolts and pieces. Its main components are: the astronomical dial, representing the position of the Sun and Moon in the sky and displaying various astronomical details and a calendar dial with medallions representing the months.

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