Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
then the windows open and the
12 apostles parade by, acknowl-
edging the gang of onlookers;
then the rooster crows; and then
the hour is rung. The hour is
often of because of daylight sav-
ing time (completely senseless to
15th-century clockmakers). At
the top of the next hour, stand
under the tower—protected by a
line of banner-wielding concert salespeople in powdered wigs—
and watch the tourists.
Clock Tour and Tower Climb:
The main TI, to the left of
the Astronomical Clock, contains an information desk and sells
tickets for these two options: zipping up the Old Town Hall tower
via elevator (60 Kč, Tue-Sun 9:00-17:30, Mon 11:00-17:30, fine
views); or taking a 45-minute tour of the Old Town Hall, which
includes a Gothic chapel and a close-up look at the inner guts of the
Astronomical Clock (plus its statues of the 12 apostles; 50 Kč, 2/hr).
s
Týn Church
Though this church has a long history, it's most notable for its
200-year-stint as the leading church of the Hussite movement
(generally open to sightseers Tue-Sat 10:00-13:00 & 15:00-17:00).
It was Catholic before the Hussites, and returned to Catholicism
after the Hussites were defeated. As if to insult Hus and his doc-
trine of simplicity, the church's once elegant and pure Gothic col-
umns are now encrusted with noisy Baroque altars. While Gothic,
the church interior is uncharacteristically bright because of its
clear Baroque windowpanes and whitewash. Read the church's
story (posted in English, rear-left side) for a Catholic spin on the
church's events—told with barely a mention of Hus. The fine 16th-
century carved John the Baptist altar (right aisle) is worth a look.
As you enjoy this church, try to ignore its unwelcoming signs—
other than the Catholic-slanted history, the only English words
you'll see here are commands that tell you what not to do.
Outside, on the side of the church facing Celetná street, find a
statue of St. Mary resting on a temporary column against the wall.
The Catholics are still waiting for a chance to reinstall St. Mary
in the middle of the Old Town Square, where she stood for about
250 years until being torn down in 1918 by a mob of anti-Habsburg
(and therefore anti-Catholic) demonstrators.
Behind Týn Church
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Ungelt Courtyard (Týnský Dvůr)
—Ever since the Old Town
was established, the Ungelt courtyard—located directly behind
