Medieval clocks were essential timekeeping devices developed during the Middle Ages, roughly from the 5th to the late 15th century. Unlike modern clocks, many medieval clocks were large, public installations found in town squares or on church towers. They often used mechanisms like gears and weights to measure time, marking the hours with bells. These clocks were significant for regulating daily life, especially in monasteries where monks needed to follow strict schedules for prayers and work. Notable examples include the astronomical clock in Prague and the Salisbury Cathedral clock, which showcase the intricate craftsmanship of the period.