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Prague Astronomical Clock (Orloj)

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Prague Astronomical Clock (Orloj)

A medieval astronomical clock from 1410, whose apostles parade every hour.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
30 min
Entry
Free (tower paid)
Best time
On the hour
Area
Old Town

A medieval clock with moving figures every hour.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Staroměstské náměstí 1, 110 00 Prague 1

  • Location: On the Old Town Hall, Old Town Square.
  • Show: The apostles appear every hour from 9:00 to 23:00.
  • Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early for a good spot.

The story of the Astronomical Clock

The Prague Orloj was installed in 1410, making it one of the oldest working astronomical clocks in the world. Its dials show the position of the sun and moon, the zodiac and old Bohemian time.

Every hour, figures of the twelve apostles appear in two small windows above the dial, while a skeleton representing Death rings a bell.

Best time to visit

Best season

All year.

Best time of day

Any hour; quieter early or late.

Crowds

Very busy at midday.

Tips before you go

  • Climb the Old Town Hall tower for views.
  • Watch the show, then climb the Old Town Hall tower.
  • Look at the calendar dial below the clock.

Best hotels near the Astronomical Clock

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Four Seasons Hotel Prague

Riverside hotel facing Prague Castle.

See prices

Hotel Paris Prague

Art Nouveau hotel near the Old Town.

See prices

Augustine Prague

Hotel in a former monastery below the castle.

See prices
All hotels near the Astronomical Clock

What's around the Astronomical Clock

  • Old Town Hall towerViewpoint above the clock.
  • Old Town SquareRight in front.
  • Týn ChurchAcross the square.
  • Havelské tržištěSmall open-air market.

Questions travellers ask

How old is the Astronomical Clock?

It dates from 1410.

When does it perform?

Every hour from 9:00 to 23:00.

Is it free to watch?

Yes.

More in Prague

Old Town Square

Old Town Square

Read the guide
Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge

Read the guide
Back to the Prague guide
Travel Plan · Prague Astronomical Clock (Orloj) Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure