Astronomical Clock

A medieval marvel that has been telling time since 1410, featuring an hourly procession of the Twelve Apostles.

The Prague Orloj is the world's oldest working astronomical clock still in its original location. Mounted on the southern wall of Old Town Hall, this intricate timepiece shows astronomical information, zodiac signs, and mechanical figures that perform a brief show every hour from 9am to 9pm.

Medieval wonder Hourly show Crowds guaranteed

Essential details

Quick facts

Cost: Free to watch from outside; tower tour 250 CZK (€10) includes clock mechanism.
Show times: Every hour on the hour, 9am–9pm daily (about 45 seconds long).
Recommended visit: 15–30 minutes including the hourly show and admiring details.

Getting there

Location: Southern wall of Old Town Hall in Old Town Square.
Nearest transport: Metro Staroměstská (A line) or Můstek (A/B lines).
Visibility: Best viewed from the front of Old Town Hall facing the clock.

Accessibility & comfort

Viewing: Open-air, completely accessible; arrive 5–10 minutes early for a good spot.
Crowds: Very crowded at every hour; larger crowds at noon and evening shows.
Photography: Great photo opportunity; use a zoom lens to capture details.

                        
                            How to experience the Astronomical Clock
                        
                                Before the hour: Arrive 10
                                minutes early to secure a viewing spot directly
                                in front of the clock.
                            
                                During the show: Watch the
                                apostles appear in the windows and the skeleton
                                toll the bell—it's brief but charming.
                            
                                After the show: Take time to
                                study the astronomical dial, calendar, and
                                zodiac symbols—there's incredible detail.

Before you go

The show is short (under a minute) but worth experiencing—manage expectations for a brief spectacle.
Book a guided tour of Old Town Hall to see the clock mechanism from inside and climb the tower.
Visit at night when the clock is illuminated—fewer crowds and beautiful atmospheric lighting.