These famous landmarks were built to become iconic. Their role far exceeds merely telling the time - the world's most famous clocks have become architectural highlights in the cities they were built, drawing in throngs of tourists to admire their stunning beauty. Let's take a look at 10 of the world's most beautiful clock towers:
Once you have finished admiring these wonders, why don't you take a look at these majestic churches?
The Elizabeth Tower, better known as Big Ben, located at the Palace of Westminster, is possibly the most famous landmark in London and in England. It is also one of the most famous buildings in Europe. It was completed in 1858 and is the third-tallest free-standing clock tower in the world.
Standing at a height of 548 feet, this clock tower held the title of the tallest building in the world between 1901 and 1908. It is comprised of four famous clocks - one on each of its sides, with each clock measuring 26 feet in diameter.
This clock tower stands at a height of 1,972 feet and features the world's largest clock face. The tower comprises of four clocks, one on each of its sides, measuring 141 feet x 141 feet apiece.
This medieval clock is the main feature of the famous Old Town Square in Prague. In fact, many tourists flock to the square each day waiting to watch its famous moving figures on the hour. First installed in the year 1410, the astronomical clock is the oldest one still operating in the world today.
Built in 1908, the clock tower is a famous tourist attraction in Munich. Every day at 11am sharp (and during the summer at 12pm and 5pm) crowds flock to the clock to watch two stories from the 16th century. This 12 to 15 minute show is a real spectacle, complete with 43 bells and 32 life-sized figures.
Located in the famous Red Square, this huge clock tower was designed in 1491 and installed in 1625. It lies close to Saint Basil's Cathedral and forms part of the Kremlin's walls, making it one of Moscow's best attractions.
This medieval tower was built in the 13th century and has since served as a guard tower, a prison, a clock tower and was used as a memorial. The clock seen today is an astronomical clock that dates back to the 15th century.
The Tower of Victory and Peace (as it is formally known) is an impressive clock tower that stands in the middle of the Center Block in Ottawa (the main Canadian Parliament complex). Standing at 302 feet tall, the Peace Tower replaced the Victoria Tower (180 feet) which burned down in 1916.
The Joseph Chamberlain Memorial Clock Tower is the tallest clock in the world, standing at 328 feet. Having been completed in 1908, this clock was built to commemorate Joseph Chamberlain, the first Chancellor of the University.
Standing at 280 feet tall, this clock tower is located within the campus of the University of Mumbai. The clock was designed by English architect Sir George Gilbert Scott and was completed in 1878.
Related Articles:
The 10 Greenest Buildings in the World
The Most Beautiful Churches From Around the World
