Solar Eclipse Draws Crowds Across Spain and the Pyrenees

Solar Eclipse Draws Crowds Across Spain and the Pyrenees A total solar eclipse crossed Europe on 12 August 2026, becoming one of the most anticipated astronomical events of the year. Totality was visible in Iceland and northern Spain, while much of the rest of Europe experienced a partial eclipse. Spain attracted particularly strong interest, with millions of people travelling to areas along the path of totality. Authorities deployed thousands of police officers and additional transport resources to manage the expected influx of visitors. Northern Spain was the main focus, as the Moon completely covered the Sun for several minutes in some locations. The event was especially significant for Spain, where a total solar eclipse had not been visible for many decades. Another total eclipse will cross the country in 2027. Catalonia also prepared extensively for the event. The main observation areas included Terres de l’Ebre, Camp de Tarragona and the Ponent region. Authorities introduced special traffic measures because of the expected increase in vehicles heading towards the best observation points. A live broadcast was also organised from the historic Ebro Observatory. In Andorra, the eclipse was not total, but it was nevertheless spectacular. Around 99% of the Sun was obscured at the maximum phase in Andorra la Vella. The eclipse began at approximately 19:33, reached its maximum at around 20:28 and continued until about 21:00. The neighbouring French Pyrenees also offered excellent viewing conditions. In the Ariège region, the Sun was expected to be more than 98% obscured in some locations. Special observation programmes were organised in mountain areas, including at the Cap de Guzet observatory. The 12 August eclipse turned the Pyrenees and northern Spain into major observation destinations, combining a rare astronomical phenomenon with a significant tourism event.The post Solar Eclipse Draws Crowds Across Spain and the Pyrenees first appeared on All PYRENEES.