Astronomical Clock, Prague, Czech Republic
Prague's astronomical clock is the third oldest in the world and the oldest in the world still working.
Its first version was assembled in 1410 by clock master Mikulas of Kadan with the help of astronomer Jan Sindel. It was reconstructed at the end of the 15th century by clock master Hanus but stopped working after his death, as skilful clock masters were extremely rare at the time. A legend has it that clock master Hanus was blinded by the council, so he couldn't repeat his work and, in turn, he disabled the clock, which didn't work for decades. Between 1552 and 1572 clock master Jan Taborsky repaired and perfected it and his adjustments have survived the passing of time, although the clock has stopped working and been repaired many times along the centuries. The last time it underwent major repair was after World War II, having been badly damaged at the end of the war- along with the Old Town Hall. It started working again in 1948.
Opening hours: Mon 11:00-22:00; Tue-Sun 09:00-22:00 (there's a lift to the top).
Entrance fee: 130 Kc (aprox. €4.80)
Comments
Post a Comment