The Astronomical Tower (not to be confused with the Astronomical Clock—more on that in a different post) and the Klementinium Library were begun at different times in the 1600s by the Jesuits who wanted to found a new university. The complex of buildings are generally referred to as the Klementinium, the library and the tower being the most accessible, if you count the library as being accessible. It was, and still is, an important astronomical center. Detailed daily weather and astronomical measurements have been taken from the same spot since 1775, some by Tycho Brahe himself.

Visitors can climb the 172 stairs (some of which are more like ladders but not as steady feeling) to the top of the tower for excellent views of Prague in every direction if you don’t mind walking along a narrow railed ledge. That rail was a later addition to the tower. One the way up (you have to take a guided tour) you stop by the extraordinary Klementinium Library, home to 27,000 volumes of very rare and very old books, mostly in Latin. All of the books have been digitized, and except for very specialized restoration purposes, no one is allowed in the library. You do get a chance to stand in the doorway and take a few pictures (try THAT in Coimbra…) and I am once again reminded how much I hate selfies. (Not yours, Emily.)

Some images, but check the Photo Dump.