Millions flock to viewing points as Spain witnesses first total solar eclipse in more than a century

Millions of spectators across Spain witnessed daylight briefly disappear on Wednesday as the nation experienced its first total solar eclipse in over a century. A path of totality, spanning from Galicia to the Balearic Islands, drew crowds to hundreds of designated viewing points in towns and cities along the eclipse's route. The astronomical event commenced early in the evening, with the partial phase visible around 7.30pm.

Totality arrived shortly after 8.26pm, plunging portions of the country into temporary darkness before sunset. The 40% of Spain covered by the band of totality included 23 provincial capitals. As the light faded, crowds fell silent before erupting in applause upon the arrival of totality. In Galicia, tens of thousands flocked to the Ferrol coast for an unobstructed view, while around 1,000 gathered at Arcos de las Salinas in Aragón for guidance from astronomers.

Totality lasted for under two-and-a-half minutes at its longest point off Iceland’s western coast, but lasted less than a minute in most of Spain. Authorities had prepared for a significant influx of visitors, with accommodations in eclipse-prone areas seeing a surge in demand. Around 350 official observation sites were set up, and over 33,500 police and law enforcement officers were deployed.

The event coincided with high temperatures and wildfire risks, prompting public safety concerns. Eye safety was also emphasized, with certified eclipse glasses mandatory during partial phases. This eclipse marked the beginning of a series of major solar eclipses Spain will experience between 2026 and 2028, and was followed by the peak of the Perseid meteor shower the night after the event.