The Pilgrimage

As the Chinese say: The best time to plant an apple tree is 10 years ago. The best time to start planning your European holiday is today. Of course the European horological pilgrimage could take months, but even if you only have a couple of days to spare, there are 3 landmarks that should be on top of your list! 1. The Prague Horologe The Astronomical Clock of Prague is a clock like no other. The restoration work has just been completed so be prepared to be amazed. Thanks to David S we have received a lovely set of photos taken this week, provided here for your enjoyment. The food and accommodation in Prague is more affordable than in any other Western European capital cities and May/June or September are the most pleasant months to visit.

2. The Ankeruhr of Vienna The Ankeruhr of Vienna is more than just a tourist attraction. Unlike Prague’s, the Ankeruhr is a modern clock. Designed and built in 1911, this artistic masterpiece has a story to tell. Vienna is less than a 4 hour drive from Prague and my personal recommendation is to stay at the Josefshof Hotel which is located in a quiet alley of the Old Town and walking distance to the Museum Quarters. At $300 Aussie for a double room per night, breakfast included, Josefshof's imperial garden breakfast is itself worth the stay. With this being said, beware of the buffet breakfast menu that includes chocolate cake, apple and poppy seed strudel and of course Mozartkugels.

3. The Salisbury Cathedral Clock Known as the world’s oldest working clock, Salisbury Cathedral Clock was built in 1386. It has run for over 500 years and until was discarded to make room for a new tower clock. However, in 1928 the clock was rediscovered by T.R. Robinson - A horological enthusiast who went up to the clock tower to see the “new clock” installed in 1884. Of course the presence of the old clock was known to many but nobody attributed much importance to it. It was only Robinson who realised its historical value, believing that this was indeed the original clock from 1386. It took another 50 years for the clock restoration to be completed. It is estimated that so far the Salisbury clock has ticked a total of 4.4 billion times.