Prague Astronomical Clock is functioning again after repairs

Prague - Tourists visiting Prague during Easter can once again admire the Astronomical Clock. Experts have completed the restoration of the interior and repaired minor faults in the machine's mechanism. The golden rooster now flaps its wings for the first time since 1945 when it crows, said Petr Skála, who takes care of the clock.
The clock was stopped on April 4 for the repair of the staircase and plaster. Because it was very dusty work, the clockmakers were afraid of damaging the machine. Therefore, they carefully wrapped and sealed its mechanism. They also took advantage of the breaks to carry out minor repairs, Skála added.
The golden rooster, which is placed above the windows with the apostles, ended up in the restoration workshop. The original rooster used to flap its wings when it crowed. However, the statue burned in a fire at the town hall in May 1945. The post-war replica no longer moved. "It flaps its wings after 66 years," noted Skála.
The trial operation of the clock was started on Wednesday afternoon after nearly three weeks, and today the administrators removed the sign that had indicated the repairs. "It was an unwritten rule that the clock must function at Easter," Skála said.
Another repair awaits the clock in the future. The stone parts dating from the 15th century, as well as the calendar, need reconstruction. It is not yet clear when the repair will be scheduled, but according to Skála, it will not be this year.