Cancel

Open app

Search

Orloj

Astronomical Clock

4.4 (102 reviews)
Open Open 24 hours

Orloj Photos

Recommended Reviews - Orloj

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Prague astronomical clock
Cheryl H.

You don't have to pay to see the astronomical clock, which was finished in 1490 and has run ever since. Every hour the two little blue doors open and figures of the 12 apostles come out and move. It's attached to the old town hall. It's wonderful to stand in the center of the old town and watch this mechanical clock. The first part of it was built in 1410.

Robert S.

This magnificent clock is not just a timekeeper but also an impressive work of art that tells a story about the history of Prague and its people..Many call this one of the most over-hyped attractions in Europe, but I did find some interesting points after listening to our tour guide. The Astronomical Clock was built in the 15th century and is the oldest working clock of its kind in the world. It consists of three main components: the astronomical dial, the calendar dial, and the figurines. The astronomical dial displays the position of the sun, the moon, and the stars, as well as the time of day. The calendar dial shows the current date, zodiac signs, and saints' days. Finally, the figurines perform every hour, with the twelve apostles appearing in a procession. The clock face displays four different times, some recognizable and others ancient. Beginning on the outer edge of the dial, in deep blue, is Bohemian (or Old Czech) time shown in the Gothic numbers. The day consists of 24 hours and starts from the sunset (rather than midnight, as we'd use today). Bohemian time was utilized by Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV, and is pointed by the golden hand. Next is Central European Time (CET) Zone, two sets of 12 hours shown in Roman numerals inside the Bohemian time numbers. CET is also indicated by the golden Sun hand. Third is Babylonian (or Arabian) time, the oldest time displayed on the astronomical dial. Babylonian time, displayed in black Arabic numerals, separates the time between sunrise and sunset; that's why there are only 12 hours. Finally, there's star time, or sidereal time. Sidereal uses the time it takes Earth to rotate once on its axis and return facing a distant star. Its time is 23 hours and 56 minutes, four minutes shorter than a solar day. A solar day is defined by when the Sun is overhead at noon, which must account for the Earth tracking one degree, or day, along its orbit around the Sun and hence is longer. Follow the little golden star among the Roman numerals for sidereal time. Now you are prepared to tell time via the stars or even back in the Middle Ages. Fun piece of workmanship.

Jo W.

Ah, the famous Astronomical Clock Tower in Old Town Hall square! For years, I've always wanted to visit Prague to see this. When I first arrived, I did not realize it was almost noon, so the crowd was HUGE and CRAZY, and I didn't understand why until I realized at at the top of every hour, the windows open and the puppets of the 12 Apostles pass through and people want to watch them. The crowd is definitely MUCH MORE manageable after that, and I came back several times for more attempts to take photos in front of the clock until I got some that I'm happy with! It's the symbol of Prague, smack dab in the touristy area, and easy to walk from to head off to many other tourist sites in the city!

Christopher T.

I had been here and climb up to the top to see the old town square yes ago and it was great and not a lot of tourists. Now it's packed and you have to reserved in advance. The clocked is amazing for what it is and definitely a historically thing to check out for sure. I would recommended to read the history of it 1st before coming cause you will hear plenty of differ version of how it started.

Sara G.

Yes, yes, the "show" is absolutely underwhelming, like a middle-school performance where everyone tried their best. But the clock itself is a masterpiece. Oldest functioning astronomical clock from the 1400s. Very intricate and wildly extra. It's a must-see because it's iconic, not because the skeleton puppet wiggling is life-changing or anything.

Clock tower
Susan C.

Astronomical clock--this symbol of Prague is seen everywhere in souvenir shops around town. Upon hearing about it, the first question that popped into my mind was: what is it? Even after seeing it in person, admiring its colorful face and intricate details I wasn't quite sure what I was looking at aside from its beautiful design. The internet to the rescue! Its mechanism has three main components: 1) the astronomical dial: this is the upper dial on the clock facade, which shows the position of the Sun and Moon in the sky and displays various astronomical details. The part of the dial with colors represents the earth, the dark navy circle at the bottom represents astronomical night, the orange sections dawn and dusk, and the lighter blue sections daytime. Three pointers rotate around this dial: one for the Sun, one for the Moon and the third for the zodiac. 2) statues: these are located along each side of the clock, and inside the windows at the top of the facade above the astronomical dial. When the clock strikes a full hour, every hour between 8 am and 11 pm, the windows open and viewers can observe "The Walk of the Apostles", moving figures and other sculptures striking the time. 3) a calendar dial on the lower section of the clock facade with medallions showing the day, week, month and year. Around the outer edge of this circular dial are written the names of 365 saints representing each day of the year. The clock shows three different times using the golden hand and Sun over the dial: 1) Old Bohemian time: which is when each new day starts with the sunset, and is shown by the golden Gothic numbers on the outermost ring of the top dial. 2) Central European time (Old German): denoted by Roman numerals on the secondary ring of numbers on the top dial (right inside the ring with Gothic numbers) 3) Babylonian time: which is shown by the curved golden lines dividing the lighter blue parts of dial into 12 parts--marked for unequal "hours". These hours are defined as 1/12 of the time between sunrise and sunset, and vary as the days grow longer or shorter during the year. In addition to above the clock captures an incredible amount of other astronomical changes as a function of time (more than I can comprehend or capture in this already not-so-short review). What an interesting little research project! Other fun facts - - Orloj is mounted on the southern wall of the Gothic styled tower of the Old Town Hall - the earliest recorded mention of its existence was October 9, 1410, - the clock only started to measure Central European Time after its reconstruction in 1948. Before that, the clock only showed the other times. - this astronomical clock is the only one in the world that measures the phases of the moon.

The famous astronomical clock in Prague, it was constructed in 1410
Regis K.

The Prague Astronomical Clock is one of the most fascinating landmarks in the city. Before our trip, we researched top sites to visit, and this clock consistently came up high on every list. We arrived just before 9 PM and caught the hourly show--watching the figures pop out as the clock struck was a memorable moment. Hard to believe this engineering masterpiece was built in the 1400s and still works today. The craftsmanship is remarkable, and the surrounding Old Town Square creates a lively atmosphere, though it does get crowded. Part of the building was destroyed during WWII, which makes the preservation of the clock even more impressive. A piece of history that leaves a lasting impression.

Jordan B.

I was in Old Town Square with my homegirl getting my IG picture on when I saw a bunch of people run to Orloj or as we know it in America "The Astronomical Clock." I missed the show one my first night but went back to check it out the next day. Orloj is an absolute marvel of medieval engineering! It has an intricate design, along with moving figures and a detailed astronomical dial that's both beautiful and fascinating. I must say, watching the hourly show with the apostles and the procession is a must-see. I missed being able to climb the tower to get a high up view of the city (TikTok failed me!) But I'll definitely have to climb up the clock on my next visit to Prague.

Astronomical clock
Terri J.

Ok - this isn't really a business, but a sight to see! The oldest working astronomical clock built in the 1400s! Truly spectacular. We were lucky enough to get a great seat at a restaurant across the street with a great view. To see it in person, is awesome, but to see it on the hour when it does its thing is quite the spectacle! It's a must- see when visiting Prague.

Helen H.

The medieval astronomical clock attached to the Old Town Hall is a MUST. It was first installed in 1410. The ornate clock has an hourly show "The Walk of the Apostles." There's usually a crowd. I managed to get a picture without anybody in it when I went in the morning and it was drizzling outside.

Astronomical Clock
Cathy C.

Yelp Review 2023 #87: Prague Astronomical Clock is a landmark that's a must-see in Old Town Square. It's been around since 1410 (one of the oldest clocks in the world) and it still works! It has apostles, astronomy figures, and death. It was damaged in World War II and took 3 years to repair. The multiple restorations of this clock has been controversial. It went from being replaced with an electric clock mechanism and back to its original mechanism. In the latest restoration, a painter made the images to look like his friends and old folks weren't happy so investigations had to be done. The clock chimes every hour from 9am to 11pm and you can expect a "show" that lasts about a minute. That's when this place gets real crowded. Vehicles passing through, and people passing and taking pictures and videos. Just for your own safety, keep your valuables tucked real good since you'll be busy looking up and your hands will be busy taking pictures/ videos.

KJ O.

It's a beautiful clock, there's a show once an hour and on the hour. A little underwhelming in my opinion, but still a worth quick visit.

Old Townhall
Taylor C.

We bought tickets to go to the top of the Old Townhall and really enjoyed view of the town square and the city from high up. The minute arm of the clock was about to hit 12 when we went down, so we also got to see the figure in the Astronomical Clock dance. It was a lot of fun.

Tammy the tornado. God I love her!

See all

1 day ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 1
Love this 3
Oh no 0

9 hours ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 month ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

8 months ago

Helpful 7
Thanks 1
Love this 9
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Sara G.
220
1697
3253

7 months ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 4
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 28
Thanks 10
Love this 24
Oh no 0
Photo of Regis K.
490
911
18340

10 months ago

Helpful 29
Thanks 9
Love this 31
Oh no 0

4 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 1
Love this 3
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0
Photo of Cathy C.
1428
2332
34260

3 years ago

Helpful 9
Thanks 0
Love this 7
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

incredible! the detail is amazing! DO NOT MISS! be there on the hour to get the experience.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 7
Thanks 0
Love this 5
Oh no 0

6 years ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 3
Oh no 0
Photo of Bruce K.
2415
25942
76078

7 years ago

Helpful 12
Thanks 0
Love this 8
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of M R.
4
638
381

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

8 years ago

Helpful 9
Thanks 0
Love this 10
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Guy K.
600
1575
15025

6 years ago

Helpful 5
Thanks 0
Love this 4
Oh no 0
Photo of David R.
4696
375
1090

7 years ago

Helpful 22
Thanks 0
Love this 32
Oh no 0

9 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

11 years ago

Helpful 5
Thanks 0
Love this 6
Oh no 0
Photo of Curt C.
2559
4228
1494

6 years ago

Helpful 8
Thanks 0
Love this 10
Oh no 0
Photo of Mike B.
3743
996
5613

12 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

11 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

Page 1 of 3

Orloj Reviews in Other Languages

Review Highlights - Orloj

The Astronomical Clock was built in the 15th century and is the oldest working clock of its kind in the world.

Mentioned in 24 reviews

Read more highlights

Verify this business for free

Get access to customer & competitor insights.

Verify this business

Church of Our Lady before Týn - 12/25/2022 - Christmas Day in Prague

Church of Our Lady before Týn

4.2(5 reviews)
0.1 kmStaré Město, Praha 1

Late Gothic Landmark with Limited Hours…read more Peter Parler and Matthias of Arras designed and built this 14th century spired cathedral. It is so interesting how the "face" has been changed with the addition of a building directly in front of the church entry. Climb the Old Town Hall Towers for a better view. Note: There are limited hours for entry. Check the schedule, we were lucky to enter 5 minutes before they closed midday.

Church of Our Lady before Týn is the name of the ridiculously gorgeous Gothic church that stands in…read morePrague's Old Town Square. You've seen pictures before. Despite visiting years ago, it took living here for a month for me to learn its name or explore inside. It wasn't until one of my new friends invited me along for a classical music performance that I became acquainted with it. I heard that it's a rarity to be able to attend a concert in the church, but I also heard the opposite, so I'm not actually sure. Either way, if you have the extra funds and want to experience some local, albeit touristy, culture, be sure to book through Via Musica. The ticket cost me around $38 (935 crowns...NOT cheap!!) but I think it was worth it for a one-time visit. I spent most of the 65-minute concert mesmerized by the church itself. Faces everywhere. Gold everywhere. Intricate designs. Unreal beauty. It was such an amazing experience! It was also cold. Keep in mind it's a very old church. Even though it's indoors, it's not like they have central heating so you'll still feel the elements. Dress appropriately! And be sure to arrive early for a good seat. If you're visiting Prague, don't miss a trip inside this church. Classical concert or not!

Photos
Church of Our Lady before Týn
Church of Our Lady before Týn - View from the tower above the astronomical clock

View from the tower above the astronomical clock

Church of Our Lady before Týn

See all

Pražský hrad - Stained glass

Pražský hrad

4.5(154 reviews)
1.6 kmHradčany, Malá Strana, Praha 1

We took a guided tour of the castle and it was a fantastic experience. The castle complex is…read moreenormous--about 753,473 square feet--making it the largest ancient castle in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. The complex stretches down to Lesser Quarter (Mala Strana), where you'll find several beautiful chateaux and palaces. One notable example is Wallenstein Palace, which is home to the Czech Senate and includes 26 houses and six gardens. Inside the castle walls, there's so much to explore: a stunning cathedral, multiple museums, the office of the Czech president, the Bohemian Crown Jewels, and much more. The entire complex is incredibly expansive--it can easily take several hours to see everything. If you're visiting Prague, this is definitely a must-see landmark, and taking a guided tour really helps you appreciate the history and scale of the place.

It will be crowded but you must visit the castle complex. Go early and tour the interior areas:…read moreBasil St. George, the Golden Lanes, Cathedral of St Vitus and the Castle Diet hall where court was held. St Vitus and the Old Royal Palace Diet hall were our favorite parts of the interior. The Coat of arms on the ceilings and the interpretive signs explaining how the land rolls were stored are interesting history. Once you are done with the interior, stroll through the gardens and also head south to view the uncrowded streets of the castle complex with 18th century Rococo, Baroque and other buildings including the National Gallery, Tuscan Palace and Archbishop Palace.

Photos
Pražský hrad - Cathedral St. Vitus inside the castle

Cathedral St. Vitus inside the castle

Pražský hrad - Old Royal Palace

Old Royal Palace

Pražský hrad - Beautiful!

See all

Beautiful!

Klementinum

Klementinum

3.5(20 reviews)
0.2 kmStaré Město, Praha 1

Tickets to the Klementinum sell like hotcakes. You cannot enter the Klementnum and see the Baroque…read moreLibrary and Astronomical Tower without a tour ticket. I went back in the morning to try to snag a ticket, and the line at 9:55am was already looong. After I got in line, it instantly grew looooonger behind me. I got a 2pm ticket, which I feel very lucky to get. I came a little late, but thankfully my group for my time slot didn't go too far. I can see why we needed a tour guide. We were led up these veerryyyyyy narrow winding stairs for multiple floors. It felt very scary, going up these narrow and steep stairs that I worry about the stability of, AND going so high up. The view of the Baroque Library was worth it. What a beautiful library. Made me feel like I was in a magical library! Took a bunch of photos and a video. I just wish we could actually enter the library. Everyone was crowding to take photos and videos from the doorway. To reach the Astrological Hall, we went up wooden stairs that are the original from the 18th century! More scary stair-climbing. The views of Prague from the top floor of the tower balcony were very beautiful. Even though I was scared of heights, dropping my phone, and bumping into someone and risking falling, it was very cool to be so high up and get a bird's-eye view of Prague. Made it back down safely! This is not a great tour for anyone scared of heights. And you'll be disappointed if you were expecting to enter the library.

This was one of the most overrated and underwhelming tourist experiences in Prague. Online tickets…read moresold out about a week in advance, so the only option was to get a same-day ticket by lining up at 9AM. I got to the ticket office at 8:50AM and there were already about 100 people in line. At around 10AM, I made it to the front of the line and was able to purchase tickets for 1:30PM. Most same-day tickets run out by 11AM. The tour itself was only 45 minutes long and no one could even go into the heavily advertised Baroque Library (1 star off). The library was barely lit and the tour group had to look in from the entrance. The library looked impressive overall, but I was not able to see the details the tour guide described, being held so far from them. In fact, I learned more from the digital rendition of the library. The was not what I had expected after lining up an hour and paying CZK380 for a live tour. The tour included the Astronomical Tower, but it was just an empty room with two small display cases of small (astronomical?) instruments (1 star off). The aerial view was nice...if you could squeeze in the tight balcony. An obese lady in my group sadly could not experience it. The tour did not include the Chapel of Mirrors, which was included in past tours. Now it requires a separate ticket. Save your money and time by learning about this place online...from the comfort of your own home or the Starbucks across the street from the Klementinum.

Photos
Klementinum
Klementinum
Klementinum

See all

Orloj - landmarks - Updated July 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...