The Most Impressive Astronomical Clocks From Around The World

Astronomical clocks are not just regular clocks. These elaborate and enormous timepieces display astronomical information such as the time, date, positions of the sun and moon, tides, lunar phases, and even zodiac signs. They’re also works of art and engineering masterpieces, first coming to widespread prominence in medieval European cities. Proudly displayed in public spaces, … More The Most Impressive Astronomical Clocks From Around The World

How The Zytglogge Astronomical Clock In Switzerland Inspired Einstein

Switzerland’s small capital city Bern is home to the Zytglogge Astronomical Clock, a masterpiece of medieval clockmaking. Overlooking the charming UNESCO-listed Old Town streets below, the clock is installed in one of the city’s oldest monuments, the Zytglogge tower. While it would still be several centuries until the Swiss dominated the craft of watch-making, this … More How The Zytglogge Astronomical Clock In Switzerland Inspired Einstein

Le Gros Horloge – The Medieval Astronomical Clock Of Rouen

Le Gros Horloge (the Big Clock) is an ornate astronomical clock located on an archway in the French city of Rouen, capital of Normandy. A Gothic-style masterpiece in design and engineering, the clock is one of the proud centrepieces of the old town of Rouen. With pedestrians passing underneath the arch over Rue du Gros-Horloge, … More Le Gros Horloge – The Medieval Astronomical Clock Of Rouen

The Astronomical Clock Of The Torrazzo Of Cremona

Italy’s tallest brick tower, the gorgeous Romanesque-style Torrazzo of Cremona, is also home to the world’s largest astronomical clock. The clock, sitting uncharacteristically low on the tower so everyone can read its face, is beautifully painted with zodiac symbols against a blue sky. The clock is extraordinarily large, and is even larger than London’s Big … More The Astronomical Clock Of The Torrazzo Of Cremona

The Prague Astronomical Clock And The Curse Of The Clockmaker

Prague Astronomical Clock (Prague Orloj) is one of the world’s most beautiful and fascinating timepieces, a medieval artefact which has been running for over 600 years. Prague Astronomical Clock is located on the south wall of the Old Town Hall in the Old Town Square. Covered with details and carvings in a Gothic style, it … More The Prague Astronomical Clock And The Curse Of The Clockmaker

Hampton Court Astronomical Clock – Henry VIII’s Extravagant Timepiece

One of England’s most magnificent astronomical clocks is Hampton Court astronomical clock, a sixteenth-century masterpiece located in Hampton Court Palace. As King Henry’s lavish residence was designed to celebrate his wealth and magnificence, the astronomical clock served as an extra symbol of royal prestige. Built not only for decorative purposes, it was also vital to … More Hampton Court Astronomical Clock – Henry VIII’s Extravagant Timepiece