Looking at our watches we were 15 minutes away from witnessing the spectacle of Prague: The Astronomical Clock.
Meshach immediately began his scout for the best spot to record the show. After making our way through a tight crowd of tourists he set up his gear near a trdelnik stand where a corral of bees who seem to have been attracted to the sweet scents of ice cream and sugary dough of the trdelnik.
Tristan and I stood outside of the crowd that surprisingly doubled in size in just those few passing moments. Five minutes to go!
“Mommy is the clock going to be loud?” Tristan asked. “It’s a clock that chimes, it’ll be loud,” I said. “Well I’m going to cover my ears!” he responded as he put his hands over his ears in preparation for the clock.
Two minutes left. The crowd settled with their phones high in the air, ready to record.
“Mommy did it start yet?” with his hands still covering his ears in anticipation for the clock. “No Tristan,” he really doesn’t like loud noises!
Looking around, it was crazy to believe that all of those people were gathered to watch a clock for 40 seconds!
A few seconds later came the moment we were all waiting for.
The Astronomical Clock’s windows opened and one by one the 12 Apostles began weaving their way in and out like a game of peek-a-boo.
At the end of the Apostles’ parade and last ring of the bell held by the skeleton, we heard the golden rooster’s crow. The bells chimed and a new hour began as the crowd dispersed.
Bonus Video:
We initially visited Old Town Hall to see the Astronomical Clock – it was very cool to watch. However, after viewing it at least three times on our trip I think once is enough. It lasts about 40 seconds – definitely less than a minute.
But we really LOVED the tour of Old Town Hall and saw their underground passages as well. You can also see the Apostles inside of the clock. Even better, if timing is right you could watch the hourly spectacle from the inside.
If you do visit be sure to climb or take the elevator (the lift) to the top of the tower. You will be rewarded with incredible views of Prague!
Be sure to walk all around the top of the tower so you can catch a view of the city from every vantage point.
Tip: If going during peak season like we did, visit the tower later in the afternoon or early morning when it opens. We tried to go around noon and the wait time was long since they can only allow a certain amount of visitors in the tower at a time.
What is your most memorable view? Comment below and share this post!
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