Old Town of Prague and Clock Tower

The Prague Old Town is the most famous attraction that we visited during our Europe trip. The Old Town Square and the Astronomical Clock Tower is among the most visited places around the area and when we were there, the square area was flooded with tourists.

The Old Town Square has a history over many centuries and boasts numerous historical buildings and monuments. Many museums, churches, and theatres can be found here and along the maze like alleys and small streets. Many restaurants and pubs line the streets around Old Town Square and some of the best food can be found here. But as popular attractions, the pricing can be quite steep too.

Among the most famous in Prague Old Town, is the Astronomical Clock Tower. The astronomical clock is placed at the front side of the tower and is said to be the world’s oldest astronomical clock. From what we learnt from an English guide there, the clock displays the astronomical information of the sun and other planets with special mechanism including the twelve apostles. The clock strikes on the hour and the apostles go through the windows for a short animation, ending with the golden rooster flapping its wings and crows. The square in front is always crowded as everyone waits for this show.

Even after listening to the explanation from the guide, we still couldn’t figure out how to tell the time from the astronomical clock. An easier way is to just look higher, at the 24 hour clock, or just look at our watch or phone.

At the side of the clock tower is a square where there are many performers and street food trucks. These street performers are very professional and you can’t take photos of them unless you tipped. We bought some famous old Prague ham from the food trucks and they were really expensive and not worth it at all.

At a distance away is the Holy Trinity Church. Look at how crowded the square is.

Another street performer. An over two metres tall panda. There were many of them, in fact. We saw polar bears too.