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All the United Kingdom Northern Ireland Belfast Albert Memorial Clock

Albert Memorial Clock

This massive monument has been telling the time for 150 years—at a slight angle.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

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James T. Bartlett
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At first the Albert Memorial Clock seems nothing special.   jbartlett2000 / Atlas Obscura User
But look again, and it seems to be leaning.   jbartlett2000 / Atlas Obscura User
Four feet in fact, though it was built on muddy river ground.   jbartlett2000 / Atlas Obscura User
Albert Memorial Clock   Jaszmina Szendrey / Atlas Obscura User
The Albert Statue   katielou106 / Atlas Obscura User
One of the clock faces   katielou106 / Atlas Obscura User
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About

A landmark for locals—who call it the Albert Clock—is situated in Queen’s Square, close to the Lagan Weir. Like the more famous Royal Albert Hall in London, the clock was also created to memorialize Queen Victoria’s husband Prince Albert, who died in 1861. But today it's probably better known for its subtle lean.

The clock, which incorporates French and Italian architectural styles, was completed in 1869. The detailed stonework included flourishes, lions, and a sculpture of Prince William. It was instantly a beautiful and ornate public landmark (that also became a meeting place for illicit activity). But unfortunately, it was built on soft, muddy ground, which meant that it wasn't going to stay standing straight for very long.

As the heavy tower settled, it began to lean about four feet to one side, requiring the removal of some of the decorations down the years. It's not as dramatic as the lean in Pisa, but once you notice it, it's hard not to see. Even though it is slightly askew the clock tower is still a cherished public monument. It underwent major restoration in 2002, during which carvings were replaced and the entire tower was cleaned.

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Clocks Architecture Towers

Know Before You Go

You can't actually go inside the clock, but there are guided tours that take you to see it from outside.

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Added By

jbartlett2000

Edited By

TBN, Jaszmina Szendrey, katielou106

  • TBN
  • Jaszmina Szendrey
  • katielou106

Published

August 30, 2019

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Albert Memorial Clock
17 Queens Square
Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT1 3FF
United Kingdom
54.600722, -5.923683
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