Solar eclipse in Bizkaia: how the 2026 one went and when to see the next ones

Update (October 2026): the eclipse has now passed. On 12 August 2026, Bizkaia witnessed the first total solar eclipse visible from the Iberian Peninsula since 1905. Totality was seen across much of the territory, especially in the west; elsewhere, the Moon covered more than 99% of the Sun. If you missed it, you will find the next eclipses visible from here at the end of this article.

Anyone visiting Bizkaia should bear in mind that on Wednesday 12 August 2026, the Moon will completely cover the Sun, plunging the region into a brief and awe-inspiring darkness before the final twilight. This is an astronomical phenomenon unprecedented in the last century.

The eclipse will take place in the late afternoon, with the Sun already very low in the sky, skimming the western horizon. At 7.32 pm, the partial eclipse will begin. The Moon’s shadow will start to cover the Sun’s disc. It will be almost imperceptible at first, and will progress gradually.

An hour later, the Moon will completely cover the Sun. At 8.28 pm, the moment of maximum darkness will occur. A few seconds later, the Sun will reappear. At 21:20, the eclipse will end and twilight will begin.

The beaches of Getxo and La Galea also offer great views, as do Urdaibai, Sopela, Bakio, and Ondarroa

Upcoming eclipses visible from Bizkaia

2 August 2027. A total solar eclipse, but the path of totality will only cross the far south of the peninsula (Cádiz and Málaga). From Bizkaia it will be seen as a partial eclipse.

26 January 2028. An annular eclipse visible from Spain. In the Basque Country it will also be partial.

To see another total eclipse from the Basque Country you will have to wait until 2180. In Spain as a whole, the next one will be in 2053.

Frequently asked questions

When is the next solar eclipse visible from Bizkaia?

On 2 August 2027. It will be total in southern Spain and partial in Bizkaia.

Will there be another total eclipse in Bizkaia?

Not for a long time: the next total eclipse visible from the Basque Country will be in 2180.

How can you watch a partial eclipse without damaging your eyes?

Only with certified solar viewing glasses (ISO 12312-2 standard) or specific solar filters. Ordinary sunglasses do not protect you, and you should never look directly at the Sun, or through binoculars or cameras without a filter.

By the way, you should never look directly at the Sun, even through ordinary sunglasses, X-ray glasses or binoculars without a filter. Use approved eclipse glasses with an ISO 12312-2 filter.