Barcelona observatories see business opportunity in August's total solar eclipse

The total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026 is being seen as a "business opportunity" by Barcelona's six astronomical observatories.

Anna Sánchez, head of the tourism marketing office at Barcelona provincial council told the Catalan News Agency (ACN) that the event "is very interesting for creating products with astrotourism."

In fact, special packages for visitors are already being developed.

"It is an exceptional phenomenon that will make everyone look toward the Iberian peninsula," Sánchez said, emphasizing the importance of making the most of the region's sky-watching options.

Sánchez believes that the total solar eclipse "will bring people from all over the world," noting that rural guesthouses and other accommodation options are already taking bookings and planning activities.

The marketing chief highlighted astronomy's global following, noting that enthusiasts often travel specifically for celestial events.

She said that for Catalan towns, the eclipse will offer the chance to observe "up close."

"It can be seen with the naked eye," Sánchez said.

She pointed out that centers such as Sabadell Observatory already attract "a large number of people" throughout the year to watch events like the August Perseids meteor shower. 

Sánchez stressed the August 12 eclipse represents an opportunity to foster greater interest in astronomy and attract more participants to year-round activities. 

Barcelona will experience a 99.7% partial solar eclipse, with a total solar eclipse mainly visible in western and southern Catalonia.

Nevertheless, the six Barcelona-region observatories – Tiana, Sabadell, Castelltallat, Castelldefels, Parc del Garraf, and Pujalt (Anoia) – plan to invite the public to discover the local skies.

"Even with the city so close, it is a very well-preserved sky," Sánchez said.

Viewing points

Catalonia has proposed 27 safe sites to host a total of 85,200 people for the 2026 total solar eclipse taking place on Wednesday, August 12, at 8:30pm.

The astronomical event will take place 121 years after the last total solar eclipse recorded in Catalonia, in 1905.

The total solar eclipse will be mainly visible in western and southern Catalonia, with Tarragona, Roquetes, and Lleida experiencing totality – up to 1 minute 32 seconds in Roquetes, and 27 seconds in Lleida.

Barcelona will experience a 99.7% partial solar eclipse, Girona 98.8%, and Puigcerdà 98.6%.

The Catalan government has proposed 27 safe sites across 20 municipalities for around 85,000 people to enjoy the experience. Sites have been selected based on scientific, security, and mobility criteria.

The Catalan government has launched a website eclipsicatalunya.cat with detailed information on how to enjoy the solar eclipse.