[MR] Wikipedia: Prague Astronomical Clock

[Garth Groff and Sally Sanford]

Noble Friends,

On this date in 1410, the Prague astronomical clock ("Orloj") was first
documented. An astronomical clock is one that shows the sun, moon, or signs
of the zodiac, in addition to telling the time.

The Orloj is mounted on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall. It is
especially complicated. In addition to the astronomical dial, it also has a
calendar dial with important saints, and displays various allegorical and
religious figures on the hour.

The Orloj began with just the time and astronomical dials. The calendar
dial is thought to have been added in 1490. The moving figures and other
features are even later additions. Not surprisingly, the clock has had many
rebuildings and repairs, particularly after heavy damage during WWII.

The tower also has a more traditional (and boring) four-faced clock near
its top story that shows only the hour and minutes. It is not clear from
the Wikipedia article, but apparently this clock is not connected to the
astronomical clock.

The Wikipedia story is at
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prague_astronomical_clock .

Astronomical clocks are not uncommon in Europe. Perhaps the best known
example in Henry VIII's clock in Hampton Court Palace:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hampton_Court_astronomical_clock .

For more on astronomical clocks in general see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_clock . This site includes a
list of most known astronomical clocks in Europe, and serves as a handy
guide for clock geeks planning their next trip abroad.

Yours Aye,


Lord Mungo Napier, Laird of Mallard Lodge  🦆