OT Staff & Waquar Habib
The Zytglogge in Bern, built between 1218 and 1220, is a former city gate turned astronomical clock. Since 1530, its ornate mechanism and animated figures have made it a UNESCO-listed icon.
Dating back to 1908, Munich’s Rathaus-Glockenspiel chimes in Marienplatz. Its 43 bells and 32 figures re-enact Bavarian historical events, making it one of Europe’s most beloved tourist attractions.
The Gros Horloge’s movement was made in 1389, installed in a Renaissance arch in Rouen. It tracks days, lunar phases, and time, marking it as one of Europe’s earliest public clocks.
Built in 1410, this is the world’s third-oldest astronomical clock still operating. Located in Prague’s Old Town Square, it shows zodiac signs, planetary motion, and an hourly procession of Apostles.
Completed in 1359, this Gothic bell tower beside Florence Cathedral houses one of Italy’s earliest clock mechanisms. Its decorative marble façade and tall design make it a Tuscan architectural masterpiece.
Unveiled in 1499, the Torre dell’Orologio features an astronomical dial showing hours, zodiac signs, and moon phases. The bronze “Moors” figures strike the bell at the top of each hour.
The Old Town Hall’s clock, dating back to the 15th century, features striking figures. Though rebuilt after wartime damage, its medieval tower and mechanism remain important in Bavarian history.
Installed around 1390, Wells Cathedral houses the world’s second-oldest surviving mechanical clock. Its 24-hour dial shows the sun and moon, while jousting knights revolve above it every quarter hour.
First mentioned in the 15th century, this Moravian astronomical clock sits on Olomouc’s Town Hall. Rebuilt in socialist-realist style after WWII, it still preserves the tradition of medieval timekeeping.
Installed in the 14th century at Lyon’s Cathedral of Saint-Jean, this astronomical clock showed religious feast days, moon phases, and solar cycles. Though now non-functional, it remains a Gothic marvel.