Total solar eclipse draws millions of people to Spain

Medinaceli – 13.08.2026: Millions of people watched a total solar eclipse in Spain on Wednesday evening. The Moon moved in front of the Sun, completely darkening locations along a broad strip from Galicia through northern and central Spain to the Balearic Islands for a short time. Large crowds gathered at many easily accessible viewing sites.

The eclipse had previously reached Iceland before crossing the Atlantic to the Iberian Peninsula. Spain offered the best conditions on mainland Europe for experiencing the Sun’s complete obscuration. In several parts of the country, people gathered in public squares, on hilltops and at specially designated viewing points. In addition to being located within the path of totality, an unobstructed view of the western horizon was crucial, as the spectacle took place in the evening.

Numerous visitors watched the event in Medinaceli, in the province of Soria. Roads, accommodation and event areas were also heavily used elsewhere within the narrow corridor. The influx of astronomy enthusiasts had already become apparent in the weeks before August 12. The eclipse coincided with the peak summer travel season, turning many regions that were already heavily visited into destinations for day-trippers as well.

A total solar eclipse occurs when, as seen from Earth, the Moon completely covers the Sun’s disk. During totality, the outer solar atmosphere, the corona, which is otherwise outshone, becomes visible. Depending on the location, this phase lasted only a short time in Spain. Even small distances from the path of totality could determine whether the Sun disappeared completely or was visible only as a narrow crescent.

In France, the event remained a pronounced partial solar eclipse. According to Météo-France, the degree of coverage ranged from around 90 percent in the Lille area to as much as 99.5 percent near Biarritz, depending on the location. Anyone wishing to experience complete darkness therefore had to travel to Spain.

Authorities and scientific institutions had previously warned of eye injuries caused by looking at the Sun without protection. Certified protective glasses were required during the partial phases. Glasses could be removed only during the brief period of complete coverage within the path of totality; they had to be put back on as soon as the first sunlight became visible again.

For Spain, the eclipse was an extraordinary event: for the first time in more than a century, a total solar eclipse crossed large parts of the country. Another total solar eclipse will reach the far south of Spain as early as August 2, 2027.