Ankeruhr in Vienna

Tagged ,

Ankeruhr in Vienna, Austria

The Ankeruhr in Vienna is a clock in a gangway between two buildings on the Hoher Markt Square (1. District). It displays every hour a different personality who has played a role in the history of Vienna. [German]

The displayed historical figures

The clock shows 15 historical figures in 12 hours. The amount of 15 is a result of displaying married couples three times. The featured personalities start to run in front of the clock face with the mentioned hour below:

Each figure is accompanied by a melody related to its period and historical role. The best time to visit the Ankeruhr is noon. At this time, the clockwork performs a parade of all figures and plays all music pieces accordingly.

Romans and basilisks

An old inscription below the Ankeruhr mentions a Roman praetorium nearby. Actually, the Roman ruins are under your feet. The Roman Museum opposite the Ankeruhr let you step down to the ancient layer of Vienna.

The snake-like figure below the clock’s face symbolizes a Basilisk. You find another depiction of such a creature on the facade of the Basiliskenhaus in a lane named Schönlaterngasse.

Sources / More info

  • Link Description of the Ankeruhr on Wikipedia [DEU]
  • YouTube Video of the performing clock