First Mention of the Prague Astronomical Clock

October 9th, 1410

October 9th, 1410

First Mention of the Prague Astronomical Clock
How Long Ago?

614 years, 5 months, 6 days ago

Location

Prague, Czech Republic

Category

Science & Technology

People
  • Mikuláš de Kadaně
Links & References
Tags

First Mention of the Prague Astronomical Clock

The Prague astronomical clock, known as the Prague Orloj, was first documented. This remarkable piece of medieval engineering was installed on the Old Town Hall in Prague and quickly became a symbol of the city. Constructed by the clockmaker Mikuláš de Kadaně, the clock displays astronomical details and features moving figures that depict various legends, attracting many visitors who witness its hourly display.

Designed by clockmaker Mikuláš de Kadaně.

Astronomical features display celestial details.

Apostle figures move during hourly performances.

Symbol of civic pride and cultural identity.

What Happened?

The Prague astronomical clock, or Prague Orloj, received its first known mention in official records, marking a significant point in the evolution of timekeeping. Installed on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall in Prague, the clock was an elaborate installation featuring not only a mechanical timekeeper but also an astronomical dial that illustrated the position of celestial bodies. The clock was designed by Mikuláš de Kadaně and was notable for its advanced mechanics for the time, providing not just the time of day but also various astronomical information, including the phases of the moon and zodiac signs.

The clock’s design incorporated an intricate array of moving figures known as the Apostles, which would become a central aspect of its appeal. Each hour, the clock offered a performance where figures representing the twelve Apostles would appear in a procession. This feature drew crowds of both locals and tourists, captivated by the combination of artistry and engineering that the clock represented. Beyond its technical attributes, the clock served as a symbol of civic pride for Prague, demonstrating the city's wealth and cultural significance during the late Middle Ages.

Over the years, despite being partially damaged and undergoing restorations, the clock preserved its reputation as a remarkable work of art and science. Its significance lies in how it blended practical functionality with a cultural statement, becoming an icon of Prague itself, and attracting continuous interest from visitors to this day.

Why Does it Matter?

The mention of the Prague astronomical clock is significant as it intertwines art with the advancement of science and technology in medieval Europe. The clock's ability to attract attention and become a defining cultural symbol for Prague illustrates the importance of public monuments in civic identity and pride. Its architectural and mechanical innovations set a precedent for future developments in clock-making and public displays, influencing similar works across Europe.

Discover More Historic Events from October 9th

Natural Disasters

Hurricane Milton Strikes Siesta Key, Florida

October 9th, 2024 0 years ago

Hurricane Milton made landfall in Siesta Key, Florida, as a powerful Category 3 hurricane, bringing destructive winds and heavy rains to the area. This event occurred just two weeks after Hurricane Helene, which had already caused significant strain on the state's resources. Milton generated widespread damage estimated at over $85 billion, leaving communities in disarray and prompting large-scale emergency response efforts across the region.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Turkey's Military Offensive in Northeastern Syria

October 9th, 2019 5 years ago

Turkey initiated a military offensive in northeastern Syria targeting Kurdish forces. The operation, dubbed 'Operation Peace Spring,' aimed to create a safe zone along the southeastern border of Turkey. The offensive was sparked by Turkey's long-standing concerns over Kurdish militias, which it views as terrorist organizations linked to the PKK. This military action primarily focused on areas in the Syrian provinces of Hasakah and Raqqa.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Rohingya Attack on Myanmar Security Forces

October 9th, 2016 8 years ago

The Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) launched its first significant attack on Myanmar security forces, targeting police posts along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border. This operation, described by ARSA as a response to ongoing persecution of the Rohingya people, led to the deaths of several police officers. The assault marked a turning point in the conflict between the Rohingya community and Myanmar’s government, sparking international attention and further military responses from Myanmar.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Assassination Attempt on Malala Yousafzai

October 9th, 2012 12 years ago

Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani advocate for girls' education, was targeted by the Pakistani Taliban while on a school bus in the Swat Valley. She was shot in the head, leading to international outrage and a surge of support for her cause. Malala survived the assassination attempt, highlighting the risks faced by advocates for education in regions affected by extremism.

Continue Reading
Space Exploration

NASA's Lunar Impact Test Success

October 9th, 2009 15 years ago

NASA successfully conducted its Lunar Precursor Robotic Program, impacting the lunar surface with the LCROSS mission. The Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) launched a projectile into the Moon's Cabeus crater to search for water ice. This mission was part of a broader initiative to prepare for future human exploration by gathering data about the Moon's resources.

Continue Reading
Economics & Industry

Dow Jones Hits Record High Before Collapse

October 9th, 2007 17 years ago

The Dow Jones Industrial Average skyrocketed to an unprecedented 14,164 points, illustrating a peak in the stock market that reflected investor optimism. However, this peak proved short-lived as financial instability brewed beneath the surface, leading to significant market corrections. Triggered by the collapse of the housing bubble and failures in mortgage-backed securities, the situation quickly escalated into a full-blown financial crisis that would impact economies worldwide.

Continue Reading