Halos, Architecture, Geometry, Time

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Halos, Architecture, Geometry, Time: A Stunning Combination

The captivating beauty of the skies is often enhanced by the presence of ice halos. These mesmerizing optical phenomena are formed through the intricate interplay of geometry and time. In much the same way, the architectural wonders of Prague, Czech Republic, showcase the mastery of design and construction spanning several centuries. Join us as we explore the fascinating connection between halos, architecture, geometry, and time.

The Gothic Old Town Hall Tower: A Shield for Sundogs and Parhelic Circle

The Old Town Hall Tower, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, stands proudly in Prague. Dating back to 1338, this historic structure serves as a shield for the sun, creating a stunning display of sundogs and a parhelic circle. Sundogs, also known as mock suns, are bright spots that appear on either side of the sun, caused by the refraction of sunlight through ice crystals in the atmosphere. The parhelic circle, a colorless halo encircling the sun, is often elusive to spot amidst wispy clouds. Together, these phenomena add an ethereal touch to the Prague skyline.

Goltz-Kinsky Palace: A Baroque Rococo Gem

As we shift our gaze towards the Goltz-Kinsky Palace, a magnificent Late Baroque Rococo structure built between 1755-1765, we witness the seamless blend of architectural grandeur and atmospheric optics. This palace served as the home of Franz Kafka's grammar school and stands as a testament to Prague's rich history. While observing the palace against the backdrop of the sky, one may notice the presence of horizontal plate crystals that manifest themselves through a circumzenithal arc. This optical phenomenon forms when sunlight interacts with horizontally oriented ice crystals, creating a vibrant arc resembling an upside-down rainbow.

Art Nouveau Facades in the Old Jewish Quarter: A Display of Circumzenithal Arcs

The Old Jewish Quarter in Prague boasts stunning Art Nouveau facades that showcase the architectural brilliance of the 20th century. Amidst these intricate designs, one can witness the presence of circumzenithal arcs, caused by the interaction of sunlight with horizontal plate crystals. These arcs, often mistaken for rainbow fragments, add a touch of whimsy and enchantment to the already captivating facades.

Iridescent Clouds: A Departure from Geometrical Optics

Sometimes, the skies above Prague take on a more rebellious nature, defying the laws of geometrical optics. Iridescent clouds, characterized by their shimmering and ever-changing colors, occur due to diffraction. Unlike the precise geometric patterns seen in other halos, iridescent clouds exhibit a departure from order and predictability. These captivating displays remind us of the ever-changing nature of our atmosphere and the awe-inspiring beauty that can emerge from its unpredictability.

The Timeless Connection

As we marvel at the breathtaking combination of halos and architecture in Prague, we cannot ignore the underlying connection to time. Each architectural masterpiece tells a story of the past, carrying with it the memories and legacies of those who came before us. Similarly, ice halos, formed through the intricate interplay of geometry and time, remind us of the transient nature of our world and the ever-present beauty that can be found in even the most fleeting moments.

Conclusion

Halos, architecture, geometry, and time converge in a harmonious symphony above the skies of Prague. From the Gothic Old Town Hall Tower to the Baroque Rococo Goltz-Kinsky Palace and the Art Nouveau facades in the Old Jewish Quarter, each architectural wonder serves as a canvas for the celestial ballet of ice halos. As we gaze upwards, we are reminded of the interconnectedness of art, science, and nature, and the boundless wonders that await those who dare to look beyond the horizon. So next time you find yourself in Prague, take a moment to admire the architectural marvels and the captivating dance of halos in the sky, for they are a testament to the timeless beauty that surrounds us.

Halos, Architecture, Geometry, Time ~ Prague, Czech Republic imaged all on the same afternoon by Mario Freitas (site) of Universidade Tecnol�gica Federal do Paran�, Brazil. ©Mario Freitas, shown with permission.

Geometry and time are the essence of ice halos and their product is beauty in the skies.

The best of architecture is similarly underpinned. That of Prague spans at least seven centuries.

At top, twin sundogs and a parhelic circle. The sun is shielded by the Gothic Old Town Hall Tower with parts dating from 1338. Prague�s famous astronomical clock stands near its base and has run continuously since 1490. It is the page�s backdrop.

At left the parhelic circle above the Old Town Square. A mimicking cloud streak illustrates how this colourless halo is often difficult to distinguish in cloud wisped skies. The right hand building is the Goltz-Kinsky Palace in Late Baroque Rococo style built 1755-65. Franz Kafka studied at the grammar school housed in the palace.

Lower left jumps to the 20th Century with an Art Nouveau fa�ade in the Old Jewish Quarter. Horizontal plate crystals make their presence known via a circumzenithal arc.

Lower image: Iridescent clouds where diffraction signals a departure from the order and dictates of geometrical optics. The 20th Century sculpture marks the 500th anniversary of the church reformer Jan Hus�s burning to death for heresy 6th July 1415.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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