What is the World Clock on Alexanderplatz in Berlin, Germany?
The World Clock on Alexanderplatz is one of main tourist attractions which located in the middle of Berlin, Germany. It is a legendary clock that serves not just as clock to tell time, but also as cultural and history symbol of the city.
The History of the World Clock
The World Clock was built and designed by clockmaker from Berlin, Erich John in 1969. It was ordered to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) and to demonstrate the technological prowess of East Germany.
The clock is located on the Berlin TV tower that was also constructed at about the same time. It is 368 meters (207 feet) tall, so making it the tallest building in Germany and a notable landmark in the city.
The Design and Functionality
The World Clock is a rotating stainless steel ring with panels showing the time in various cities of the world. These cities cover all 24 time zones so visitors can see the current local time worldwide. The panels are plainly marked with the city names and so include daylight savings, thus much easier for international travelers.
In the middle of the clock there is a moving disc, symbolizing the sun. It orbits the Earth once every 24 hours duplicating the rotation rate of the Earth on its axis. This amazing feature gives a dynamic element to the clock, drawing visitors and locals to it.
The clock’s accuracy is kept by a synchronization with a master clock located at the base of the Tower. This guarantees that the time shown is at all times accurate and dependable.
Why see World Clock at Alexanderplatz?
The World Clock on Alexanderplatz is not only a practical clock, but it also attracts a lot of tourists. Some reasons to come are:
- Cultural Importance: Clock stands as a part of a bit of German history, a reminder of the states of the countries rule by the Cold War. It serves as a sign of the unification and progress of Berlin since the reunification.
- Panoramic Views: Visitors can go by elevator to the observation deck of the Berlin TV tower, directly above the World Clock. Then they can marvel at an incredible panoramas over they skyline of Berlin.
- Photography: The clock’s extraordinary design and pretty place make it very photogenic; the hand photographers. Photograph a iconic photo of this famous landmark.
Tips to visit the World Clock
If you are going to visit such attraction of World Clock on Alexanderplatz, here is some useful advice:
- Head over to the spot early in the day to dodge the crowds especially in peak tourist season.
- Visit it along other sights to see in Alexanderplatz, like, the Fernsehturm observation deck, the Neptune Fountain or the Berlin Cathedral.
- It would be great to visit it during sunset or night time to witness the clock lighting up the sky against the city lights.
- Be sure to check the weather forecast before you visit, the foggy or overcast conditions can contribute to a reduced view from the observation deck.
- Benefit from a number of restaurants and cafes in close distance to Alexanderplatz and tasting and enjoy of the food and coffee and not to lose in the lively atmosphere of the area.
Visiting the World clocks on Alexanderplatz is a good way to experience how Berlin combines history, technology and culture. This timeless classic is as striking as its sleek desing, and as precise with its timekeeping.
visitors from around the world.
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