Solar Eclipse Enthralls Millions Across Europe

On Wednesday, August 12, 2026, a spectacular solar eclipse was visible over the Virgin Maria church in Vidigulfo, near Pavia in northern Italy. Millions gathered across Spain and neighboring regions to witness this captivating celestial event, marking the country’s first total solar eclipse in over a century.

No matter how many photos or videos you’ve seen, nothing comes even close to what it actually feels like. — Rosa Celiberti, a language teacher from Medinaceli, Spain.

In Spain, people flocked to cities and towns to get a glimpse of the eclipse, carrying lawn chairs and umbrellas. The eclipse was visible across northern and central Spain and Portugal, as well as parts of Greenland and Iceland. As the sky darkened progressively, applause and cheers erupted from the crowds.

Experiencing Totality Across Regions

Totality, the phase when the moon fully covers the sun, lasted less than 2½ minutes off Iceland’s west coast. In Spain, by the time the eclipse reached the northern cities like A Coruña, Bilbao, and Santiago de Compostela, it dwindled to a minute or so before ending over the Mediterranean.

Tourism and Safety Measures

The eclipse attracted significant attention, drawing an estimated half-million additional visitors to Spain. Demand for accommodations spiked, with rural areas preparing for the influx. Authorities, mindful of the scorching summer temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius (95 Fahrenheit) and recent wildfires, initiated a large public safety campaign and deployed law enforcement to observation areas.

In Iceland, clouds and rain added to the atmosphere as hundreds gathered to watch the spectacle near landmarks like Reykjavik’s Hallgrímskirkja church. They cheered as darkness fell briefly before the light returned.

Essential Eclipse Gear

Special eclipse glasses were crucial for safe viewing, with many outlets selling out of stock before the event. These glasses, with filters blocking harmful solar radiation, were in high demand at supermarkets, stores, and pharmacies. In Madrid, long lines were seen outside shops carrying these essential items.

Maritime Viewings and Availability

Captain Sverre Rud of the MS Spitsbergen maneuvered carefully for optimal viewing positions around Greenland for his 126 passengers. Despite challenges, anticipation was high onboard, similar to a Christmas Eve feeling, Rud commented.

In Reykjavik, hotel rates soared, with rooms averaging over $1,000 a night. Iceland’s capital experienced its first total eclipse since 1954, with many tourists booking accommodations years in advance.

Witnessing the Phenomenon in Britain

In Britain, over 90% of the sun was obscured. Enthusiasts flocked to parks and open spaces, particularly in Greenwich Park, where the sky turned a haunting gray as the moon created a hat-like silhouette over the sun. Veronica Orozco, recalling an eclipse from her youth in Venezuela, celebrated the occasion with champagne. Meanwhile, Aja Lilit, who had a birthday close to the event, viewed the eclipse as a cosmic gift.