What time should I visit the astronomical clock in Rostock to see the Apostles procession?

The best time to visit is at noon when the procession of the Apostles circles around the figure of Christ in the top half of the clock. This daily spectacle is the highlight of the astronomical clock and can only be witnessed at this specific time.

Where exactly is the Rostock astronomical clock located in the city?

The astronomical clock is housed in St. Mary's Church (Marienkirche), which is the largest of three town churches in the Hanseatic city of Rostock and is positioned behind the altar. St. Mary's Church is a prominent landmark in the city center.

Is the Rostock astronomical clock still working with its original mechanisms?

Yes, this 1472 astronomical clock built by Hans Düringer is the only one of its kind still in working condition with its original clockworks intact. The inner mechanisms have never been replaced, making it a remarkably well-preserved historical artifact.

What is the legend behind why Hans Düringer built this clock in Rostock?

According to legend, after Düringer created a similar clock in Gdańsk, authorities threatened to blind him to prevent him from duplicating his work. He escaped to Rostock and was granted sanctuary by the city in exchange for building this astronomical clock, which still stands today as a testament to his craftsmanship and ingenuity.

What information does the astronomical clock display besides the time?

Below the Apostles procession, the clock features hands that display not only the time but also the zodiac signs, moon phases, and sun position. This makes it both a functional timepiece and an astronomical instrument for tracking celestial movements.

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Astronomical clock

This astronomical clock was built in 1472 by Hans Düringer and is the only one of its kind still in working condition with its original clockworks. It is placed in St. Mary’s church (Marienkirche), the biggest of three town churches found in the Hanseatic city of Rostock. This hi...

Photo · Marika P.

Astronomical clock — Rostock, Germany.

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Rostock

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About Astronomical clock

Astronomical clock - Rostock | Secret World Trip Planner

This astronomical clock was built in 1472 by Hans Düringer and is the only one of its kind still in working condition with its original clockworks. It is placed in St. Mary’s church (Marienkirche), the biggest of three town churches found in the Hanseatic city of Rostock. This historic timepiece stands behind the altar. This top half features a procession of the Apostles. They circle the figure of Christ everyday at noon. Just below it are hands displaying the time, zodiac, phases of the moon and sun. According to legend, after Düringer created a similar clock in Gdańsk, Germany, the authorities were going to blind him so he could never duplicate it. Instead, he escaped to Rostock and was given sanctuary in exchange for building this clock. The inner clockworks are original.