Budapest’s Timewheel is the world’s largest hourglass, taking an entire year to drain completely. Instead of sand, tiny pieces of glass trickle through the clock with the help of a computerized system that keeps the timing perfect. Built in 2004 to commemorate Hungary’s inclusion into the European Union, the giant wheel only needs to be reset once a year. Every December 31st, a team of four people use thick steel cables to rotate the Timewheel 180 degrees on its built-in rails, resetting the chronological monstrosity for another year. Even with multiple helpers, the process takes up to 45 minutes to complete the half-rotation. The installation is located in a public park where visitors can come by and try to spin the gigantic granite wheel for themselves.
