Ankeruhr is an Art Nouveau clock at Hoher Markt in Vienna’s historic center. Designed by Franz Matsch and built between 1911 and 1914, it forms a bridge between two buildings. Twelve figures linked to Viennese history move across the clock face, one at each hour. At noon, the full procession lasts about ten minutes and comes with music. Stop by on a walk through the center, or arrive before noon for the complete display.
A clock built as a bridge
Ankeruhr was commissioned by the Anker Insurance Company during an expansion of its premises. Franz Matsch, a painter and sculptor, designed the clock, which was built from 1911 to 1914. It connects two buildings above Hoher Markt, making the timepiece part of the square’s architecture as well as a working clock.
The clock’s twelve figures represent historical Viennese personalities. Their passage across the face gives the clock a public, moving display rather than a static dial. The commission is also associated with the idea of life insurance and the value of life.
The figures and their procession
A figure moves across the clock at each full hour. At noon, all twelve appear in a longer procession accompanied by music, which runs for about ten minutes. The figures include people from different fields of Austrian history, among them Emperor Marcus Aurelius and composer Joseph Haydn.
The noon display is the most complete way to see the mechanism in motion. During the Christmas season, the musical accompaniment has included Christmas carols.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is Ankeruhr?
It is at Hoher Markt 10-11 in Vienna’s historic center.
When do the figures move?
One figure passes across the clock at each full hour. At noon, all twelve take part in a procession with music.
How long does the noon display last?
The procession lasts about ten minutes.
Who designed Ankeruhr?
Painter and sculptor Franz Matsch designed the clock, built between 1911 and 1914.
