Architecture is a significant draw for tourists and allows cities and countries to show off incredible work from the past. Some sights include iconic clocks that still work today despite their antique construction. Where can you find these impressive structures? Here is a tourist’s guide to the world’s most famous clocks and clock towers.
1. Clock of Testour
Start near the Mediterranean Sea by heading to Testour, Tunisia. This small town is in the Medjerda Valley and boasts the Great Mosque of Testour as one of its tourist destinations. The 17th-century monument’s clock boasts a unique characteristic — its reverse direction. The hands of the clock run counterclockwise to honor its past.
The mosque is a must-see in Tunisia because of its Andalusian architecture and continued restoration. If you enjoy religious history, you may appreciate the clock. Testour residents say the clock is a symbol of coexistence in the region — its minaret features a Star of David and Islamic forms from many Muslim sects.
2. Prague Astronomical Clock
Prior to the invention of the watch in the 16th century, people relied on the sun to understand how much of the day had passed. Astronomical clocks were prominent hundreds of years ago, and you can find one in Prague’s Old Town Hall. Its 1400s construction makes the clock one of the world’s oldest.
If you want to tell time the old way, the Prague Astronomical Clock still operates. The structure has required renovation over the years due to war and other instances. However, the clock tells you the time based on the sun’s position. You also see the moon phases and the 12 zodiac signs throughout the year.
3. Salisbury Cathedral Clock
The Salisbury Cathedral Clock is the oldest in England and one of the first constructed worldwide. Historians say William of Colchester and Johannes of Ticineto built it between 1386 and 1387, nearing the end of the Middle Ages. The clock is faceless but is worth seeing because it still runs. If you like striking clocks, this sight could be for you.
When you have a 600-year-old clock, maintenance is necessary to keep it going. Exterior clocks’ positioning often puts them under high operational stress, which can result in wear and tear to the gears. Salisbury Cathedral’s clock has benefited from extensive restoration to keep it going, most notably in 1956. Now, you can see the clock on the cathedral’s west front and appreciate the architecture.
4. Elizabeth Tower
The United Kingdom is excellent for clock fans because it boasts another famous structure. Elizabeth Tower — nicknamed Big Ben — is a significant English landmark overlooking the River Thames. If you’re considering a London trip, visit Big Ben before the pubs and enjoy the fantastic architecture. It’s hard to miss when touring this European hub.
Big Ben is one of the tallest structures in London, and you can take a tour to experience it. The tour is popular, so you’ll want to book your tickets well before your visit. Enjoying this clock tower entails walking up its 334 steps and learning about its inner mechanisms. Bring earplugs for the tour because the high noise level can cause discomfort for many.
5. Ayer Mill Clock
The United States also has plenty of sights to appreciate. For instance, the Ayer Mill Clock is a must-see road trip stop because of its monumental size. Head to Lawrence, Massachusetts, and stop just before the Merrimack River to see the structure as large as Big Ben.
One of its claims to fame is being the largest mill clock in the United States. The Massachusetts monument stands 267 feet tall and is visible from nearly anywhere in the city. Compare the Ayer Mill Clock to Elizabeth Tower — its faces are only six inches smaller than the English competition’s. The building, which was built in 1910, is now home to New Balance.
6. Giant Ghibli Clock
If you like unusual clocks, head to Tokyo, Japan. Near the Hamarikyū Gardens, you’ll find the Giant Ghibli Clock on the second floor of the Nittele Tower. This sculpture is among Japan’s most famous public art pieces, and it’s hard to miss when you walk the streets of Tokyo. While not as old as other famous clocks, it has a place among the world’s most famous ones.
Hayao Miyazaki — a filmmaker and animator — designed the clock to primarily contain handmade steel and copper plating. The Ghibli Clock has numerous shows daily, so make room on your itinerary to see the presentation. You may have to combat the crowds in Japan because of record tourism.
Finding Time for Clock Vacations
For centuries, clocks have represented town centers and breathtaking architecture worldwide. Regardless of your destination, you’ll find impressive structures with unique backstories. The United States, United Kingdom, Tunisia and many other countries have must-see clocks to add to your bucket list.
Jack Shaw is the senior writer for Modded, a men’s lifestyle publication. An avid outdoorsman and lover of travel, he’ll often find himself taking retreats out into nature to explore the world and encourage others to do the same. Feel free to connect with him via LinkedIn.