Situated in the 13th-century Obizzi palace, the Vienna Clock Museum (Wiener Uhrenmuseum) takes you through the history of timekeeping, with over 3,500 timepieces, thereof 1,000 on display. Some dating as far back as the 15th century.
Most Famous Clocks At Vienna Clock Museum
While time is peacefully ticking away at the palace, every now and then a mechanical cuckoo and flutes from ‘flute clocks’ break the routine. The largest clock on display is the tower clock of St. Stephan’s Cathedral (Stephansdom), the smallest is a so-called Zappler (grandfather clock with two pendulums), which would fit under a thimble.
1. The Oldest 15th Century Timepieces
The Wien Museum Uhrenmuseum's collection includes pieces dating back to the 15th century. These clocks reveal the ingenuity of early clockmakers. They relied on rudimentary mechanics to track the hours and mark the passing of time. At a time when sundials and water clocks were still common, these intricate timepieces were revolutionary, paving the way for the advanced clock-making industry that Vienna would become famous for centuries later.
2. The Astronomical Clock by David a Sancto Cajetano
This 18th-century masterpiece features multiple dials that display the positions of planets, moon phases, and zodiac signs according to both the Ptolemaic and Copernican systems. Beyond its timekeeping function, this remarkable piece serves as a complex astronomical computer, calculating eclipses and demonstrating the heliocentric theory. It was still controversial in Catholic Vienna at the time of its creation.
3. Vienna’s Iconic Cathedral Tower Clock
One of the heaviest - and definitely the largest - exhibits in the museum is the tower clock of St. Stephen's Cathedral, which was originally installed in the cathedral in 1699. Weighing nearly a ton and crafted from solid cast iron, this monumental clock is an engineering feat and a symbol of Vienna’s storied past. Originally installed in the city’s iconic Stephansdom , it once marked time for the entire community. Today, visitors can marvel at its intricate design and appreciate the technical challenges of creating such a massive timepiece centuries ago.
4. Vienna Regulator: The Laterndluhr
The museum showcases a Vienna regulator clock, aka Laterndluhr. A Laterndluhr (literally ‘lantern clock’) is a distinctive type of Viennese wall clock developed in the Biedermeier period, characterized by its slim, elongated case resembling a lantern and typically featuring elaborately decorated cast brass or bronze plates. These clocks employ a weight-driven pendulum movement with a duration of eight days or more. They are housed in a case with glass panels on all sides to display the intricate mechanism and decorated plates. Known for their superior craftsmanship and precision, Viennese Laterndluhren often incorporate complications. Such as grande sonnerie striking mechanisms were considered prestigious timepieces in 19th-century Austrian households.
5. Pocket Watches, Cuckoo Clocks, Sundials, and Hourglasses
The museum’s collection spans a variety of different timepieces. From intricately designed pocket watches to playful cuckoo clocks and historical hourglasses. Each piece showcases how different cultures and eras have interpreted the passage of time.
Vienna Clock Museum History
Founded in 1917 as part of the Vienna Museum, the Clock Museum was initially established to showcase the history and craftsmanship of timekeeping devices. It owes much of its exceptional collection to two private collections: that of Rudolf Kafan, a middle-school teacher and the museum’s first curator, and the renowned collection of writer Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach. Together, these collections laid the foundation for what has become one of Europe’s most impressive clock collections.
More Time Travelling In Vienna
If you like the idea of time travelling, turn back the clocks in a virtual reality tour through Vienna. Step back through Vienna's defining moments with an two-hour virtual reality experience, guided by audio narration through six pivotal scenes, from 1483 to 1945.
Vienna Clock Museum Location
It is located in the Palais Obizzi, a stunning historical building that dates back to 1690. The museum address is: Schulhof 2, 1010 Vienna. This location is just a short walk from the city center, making it an easy addition to your Vienna itinerary.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday: 9 am to 5 pm; Saturday and Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm. Closed Mondays, January 1, May 1, and December 25
Admission Fee: €6(General Admission)
Discounted Fee: €4 (students, seniors)
Free Admission: Free every first Sunday of the month for all visitors.
Insider Tips for Visiting Wien Museum Uhrenmuseum
To make the most of your visit, here are some insider tips:
- Timing Your Visit: Try to visit the museum at the hour to experience the fascinating "Clock Concert" where all the timepieces strike together, creating a symphony of sound. It’s a unique experience that you won’t want to miss!
- Photography: If you're a fan of photography, be sure to capture the details of the beautifully decorated pocket watches and elaborate timepieces. The museum’s ornate exhibits are visually stunning, and you’ll want to remember them.
- Don’t Rush: There’s a lot to take in, so allow yourself plenty of time to explore all three floors. Whether you're a history buff or just fascinated by the craftsmanship of clocks. You'll want to spend time admiring the exhibits.
Nearby Attractions
The Clock Museum is situated in the middle of Vienna. So, it’s easy to combine a visit with other nearby attractions. They include; St. Stephen’s Cathedral, just a short walk from the museum, Stephansplatz, perfect for shopping or relaxing in a nearby café, The Hofburg Palace, the former imperial palace housing several museums and the famous Spanish Riding School, Kärntnertor Theatre If you’re a fan of performing arts.
Journey Through Time at Vienna Clock Museum
The Vienna Clock Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of timekeeping, showcasing everything from ancient clocks to modern masterpieces. Make sure to plan a visit to see the intricate craftsmanship and historical importance of these timepieces. It is truly a journey through the ages in Vienna. Explore other museums in Vienna like Museumsquartier, Vienna Museum Karlsplatz, Museum of Applied Arts Vienna, Vienna Art Museum, Vienna Chocolate Museum, Sigmund Freud Museum, Egon Schiele Museum.
