Travel & Experiences

Offbeat Traveler: Prague Astronomical Clock

epa04645886 People observe medieval Astronomical clock at Old Town Hall Tower at the Old Town Square in Prague, Czech Republic 03 March 2015. The astronomical clock of Prague's town hall was built in 1410 by royal clockmaker Mikulas of Kadan and the rector of Prague University, Master Jan Sindel. It was the first time in central Europe that such a large astronomical clock was placed on the facade of a secular building. Fitted with an astronomical dial, it was enhanced with a calendar dial at the end of the 15th century. EPA/FILIP SINGER ** Usable by LA, CT and MoD ONLY **

The top portion of the clock, featuring the astronomical dial and statues of the 12 apostles that appear at the windows.  (Filip Singer / EPA)

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The Prague Astronomical Clock began maintenance earlier this month as four exterior wooden figures were removed for cleaning. Built in 1410, the apparatus is the world’s oldest functioning astronomical clock. It adorns the facade of the Old Town Hall of Prague’s Old Town Square.

The clock’s astronomical dial tracks the motion of the sun, moon and stars. Above the dial, statues of the 12 apostles appear at the hour every hour from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

-- Jason La, Los Angeles Times

A worker removes the statue of Death for repairs. Death tolls the bell at each hour.

A worker removes the statue of Death for repairs. Death tolls the bell at each hour.  (Stanislav Zbynek / Associated Press)

The statue of Death lies in a car after being removed from the clock.

The statue of Death lies in a car after being removed from the clock.  (Stanislav Zbynek / Associated Press)

Otakar Zamecnik works on parts of the astronomical clock during maintenance in 2005.

Otakar Zamecnik works on parts of the astronomical clock during maintenance in 2005.  (Michal Cizek / AFP/Getty Images)

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