Prague Astronomical Clock, Prague Travel Guide

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Witness the enchanting hourly show of the Prague Astronomical Clock, a medieval masterpiece in the heart of Prague's Old Town Square.

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Prague Astronomical Clock

The Prague Astronomical Clock, or Orloj, is a medieval clock in Prague's Old Town Square. Installed in 1410, it is one of the oldest and most intricate astronomical clocks still operating. The clock features a mechanical watch, astronomical dial, and calendar dial adorned with Gothic sculptures. Every hour, crowds gather to witness the 'Walk of the Apostles,' a captivating display of moving figures.

A brief summary to Prague Astronomical Clock

Staroměstské nám. 1, Josefov, 110 00, CZ
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Monday 11 am-8 pm
Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
Thursday 9 am-8 pm
Friday 9 am-8 pm
Saturday 9 am-8 pm
Sunday 9 am-8 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Prague Astronomical Clock.

Arrive early (10-15 minutes before the hour) to secure a good viewing spot, as the hourly show draws large crowds.
Visit during the week for a less crowded experience compared to weekends.
Consider visiting during the golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for unique photo opportunities.
Take the elevator up the Old Town Hall Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Prague.

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Getting There

Walking

From Old Town Square, the Prague Astronomical Clock is easily accessible on foot. As you approach the Old Town Hall, locate the tower on its southern side. The clock is mounted on the tower's facade. The spectacle takes place on the hour every hour, from 8am to 11pm.
Public Transport

To reach the Prague Astronomical Clock via public transport, take Metro Line A to Staroměstská station. From there, it's a short walk to Old Town Square. Alternatively, several tram lines stop at Staroměstské náměstí (Old Town Square). Single tickets cost 30 CZK for 30 minutes or 40 CZK for 90 minutes. Validate your ticket upon entering the metro station or tram.
Taxi

Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off near Old Town Square. Be aware of potential scams and ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand. A short taxi ride from the Prague city center to the Old Town Square will typically cost between 90 CZK and 120 CZK. The basic fare is 60 CZK, and the price per kilometer is 36 CZK.

Discover more about Prague Astronomical Clock

The Prague Astronomical Clock, locally known as Orloj, stands as a captivating testament to medieval ingenuity and artistry. Located on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall in Prague's Old Town Square, it has been a mesmerizing spectacle for over six centuries. Installed in 1410, the Orloj is one of the oldest astronomical clocks in the world and the oldest still in operation. Created by clockmaker Mikuláš of Kadaň and astronomer Jan Šindel, it comprises three main components: the astronomical dial, the calendar dial, and the 'Walk of the Apostles'. The astronomical dial displays the positions of the sun, moon, earth, and zodiac constellations, as well as various timekeeping methods, including Babylonian, Old Bohemian, and Sidereal time. The calendar dial, added later in 1490, indicates the day, month, and year. The clock's most famous feature is the hourly procession of the Twelve Apostles. Every hour, from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, crowds gather to witness the spectacle. As the clock strikes the hour, two windows above the clock face open, revealing the apostles as they parade past. Accompanying them are moving figures representing Vanity, Greed, Death (a skeleton), and other vices. A golden rooster crows, and the tower's bell rings, marking the end of the show.The Orloj has undergone several repairs and renovations throughout its history. It suffered damage during the Prague Uprising in 1945 and was meticulously restored. Today, the Prague Astronomical Clock remains a symbol of the city and a must-see attraction for visitors from around the world.