From a record-breaking clock tower in Saudi Arabia to a 15th-century Venetian clock, find out what makes these clock towers so iconic.
Long before we began glancing at our phones or watches on our wrists, clock towers served as the best way to help people check the time. Clock towers are still considered one of the most iconic structures, and in some cases, they serve as symbolic monuments of their cities. The functional designs add beauty, provide information, and sometimes offer a daily show of bells or animated figures. Check out five iconic clock towers from around the world and what makes them stand out.
The Prague Astronomical Clock in Prague, Czech Republic
This clock from the medieval era is the main symbolic feature of the popular Old Town Square in Prague. Tourists in large numbers visit the square every year to watch the clock’s famous figures making an appearance at the stroke of the hour. The astronomical clock was installed in 1410, and it is one of the oldest operating clocks in the world.
St. Mark’s Clock Tower in Venice, Italy
St. Mark’s Clock Tower, commissioned in 1493, is placed at the famed Piazza San Marco in Venice. The Astronomical Clock was designed by Zuan Carlo Rainieri, which displays the time and all the zodiac signs and the lunar phases. Two bronze figures are placed at the top of the tower that strike a bell every hour. The clock tower has been restored several times over the years - some of the major renovations took place in 1752, 1857, and 1996.
Rajabai Clock Tower in Mumbai, India
Rajabai Clock Tower within the Fort campus of the University of Mumbai was designed by Sir Gilbert Scott, a British architect who drew inspiration from the Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower). The tower’s Venetian Gothic design features four types of stone, limestone sculptures, and stained-glass windows.
Makkah Royal Clock Tower in Mecca, Saudi Arabia
The Makkah Royal Clock Tower is located within the Abraj Al-Bait complex, and it has the largest clock face in the world. The clock tower is 1,972-foot tall, and is the world’s third tallest building. The tower features an eight-story spire - housing a scientific center, prayer center, and an observation deck. The clock flashes 21,000 white and green LED lights five times a day to alert calls for worship.
Rathaus-Glockenspiel in Munich, Germany
The Rathaus-Glockenspiel is a famous tourist attraction since its construction in 1908. Every day at 11:00 and 17:00, people gather to watch as the clock re-enacting two 16th-century stories. This 13 to 15-minute show with 32 life-sized figures and 43 bells is truly a spectacle.
Visit at least one of these iconic clock towers to admire their marvellous architectural designs.
