Description of the attraction
The Zeitglockenturm, or Clock Tower, is located right in the heart of Bern's historic Old Town. It got its name in honor of the large multifunctional clock made by the blacksmith Kaspar Brunner in 1530. In one watch case, there are five mechanisms that are responsible for different actions. For example, two mechanisms set in motion the figures, which, before each clock strike, arrange amusing performances that gather crowds of tourists. First, a rooster crows (we will hear its cry three times during the performance), then a procession of bears passes, then the god Chronos gives a signal to the knight, who beats the bell. Nearby, a lion turns its head, as if confirming that the clock is running correctly. The clock shows not only the time, but also the movement of the Sun, the phases of the Moon, the day of the week, the course of the zodiacal constellations.
The Zeitglockenturm Tower, now one of the symbols of Bern, which every tourist visiting this city seeks to see, was built in 1218-1220 as part of the city's defensive system. The main street of Bern rested against it. Over time, the city, bounded by the river Are, expanded towards the west, new city walls appeared. And the Zeitglockenturm tower suddenly found itself surrounded by residential buildings and was no longer used to defend Bern. It was immediately converted into a prison. But in 1405 it completely burned down, and the prisoners were transferred to another city tower, which is now called the Prison tower.
The Zeitglockenturm tower was restored and subsequently rebuilt several times. In the second half of the 18th century, it acquired its baroque appearance.
