World Time Clock (Weltzeituhr) · Audio guide
Listen to the story of World Time Clock (Weltzeituhr)
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Story
This clock shows the time for all the cities in the world. But it was built by a country that didn't let anyone leave.
It was designed in secret, assembled in days, and on the day it was inaugurated, half of Berlin came to see the time in New York without ever being able to go.
The World Time Clock is Berlin's most brilliant irony. Stay with me in front of it and I'll reveal its entire history to you.
Visiting World Time Clock (Weltzeituhr)
- How to get there
- The closest stop is Alexanderplatz (metro/train), just 27 meters away.
- Entry and price
- Entry is free.
- Opening hours
- The World Time Clock is always open.
- What to look for on site
- The clock features a cylinder with 24 faces, each representing a time zone and displaying the names of major cities. It also has a model of the solar system on top and a mosaic base with a wind rose.
Frequently asked questions
What is special about the World Time Clock's mechanism?
The clock's mechanism includes a gearbox from a Trabant car, a symbol of East Germany, which powers the rotation of the hour ring.
Why was the World Time Clock built?
It was designed by Professor Erich John for the 20th anniversary of the German Democratic Republic and inaugurated on September 30, 1969.
How does the World Time Clock reflect historical changes?
In 1997, the clock was updated to include cities previously omitted for political reasons, such as Tel Aviv and Seoul.
Why is the World Time Clock a popular meeting point?
In East Berlin, it became a reliable meeting spot due to its central location and the lack of trustworthy communication methods.
What can I see near the World Time Clock?
Nearby attractions include Urania-Weltzeituhr, just 6 meters away, and Radnetz Deutschland, 61 meters away.
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