Central Catalonia observatory recognized for 'excellent' stargazing experience

The Castelltallat Astronomical Observatory in Sant Mateu de Bages, northwest of Barcelona in central Catalonia, has been officially designated a Starlight Star Park by the Starlight Foundation for its "excellent" stargazing experience.

The foundation is a global organization supported by the Canary Islands Astrophysics Institute and backed by UNESCO. This international recognition highlights the observatory's outstanding conditions for stargazing and its active role in promoting astrotourism and protecting the night sky.

The observatory opened in 2004 and benefits from its isolation from major urban centers. In 2022, the Catalan government declared the surrounding area a Quality Night Sky Space, a recognition guaranteeing low light pollution in the area. 

In a letter announcing the certification, Starlight Foundation managing director Antonia M. Valera praised the observatory for its growing impact on star-based tourism. 

Local authorities played a significant role in achieving the certification, according to a statement. Sant Mateu de Bages Council implemented a Light Pollution Prevention Plan that regulated public lighting to minimize upward-facing artificial light. This helped to enhance night sky visibility while also benefiting local wildlife.

The recognition was celebrated by the recently formed Astrotourism Association of the Serra de Castelltallat, a regional initiative to promote sustainable tourism rooted in astronomy.

Association leaders called the certification a "key step forward" and plan to pursue additional recognition as a Starlight Tourist Destination.