The Community of Madrid sets up 52 observation points and organises a festival at the Recreational Area of the Riosequillo Pools. The total eclipse will begin at 19:30 and reach its peak at around 20:32.
On August 12, the sky over the Community of Madrid will darken with a total solar eclipse, a phenomenon not seen in the Iberian Peninsula since 1905. For this occasion, the regional government has prepared a special operation that includes 52 observation points spread across the northern and eastern areas, and a festival in Buitrago del Lozoya that promises to be the epicentre of the celebration.
The main event will take place at the Recreational Area of the Riosequillo Pools, an outdoor space with a capacity for 3,000 people. Entry will be free, but prior registration will be required through the Buitrago del Lozoya Town Hall website, where a form will be available starting tomorrow at 10:00. Places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached.
The festival, named the Eclipse Festival, is sponsored by the Pueblos con Vida programme, a regional initiative aimed at revitalising 142 municipalities with fewer than 20,000 inhabitants. Throughout the day, attendees will be able to enjoy educational, scientific, and cultural activities, as well as workshops and children's games. Several food trucks will offer food to complete the experience.
To ensure safe viewing, the Community of Madrid will distribute 36,500 approved glasses among attendees. Each pair will carry a QR code with usage recommendations. This number is in addition to the 2,000 glasses already distributed during the Madrid es Ciencia Fair and those handed out in educational centres and institutions. Furthermore, informative leaflets with tips for safely observing the eclipse have been prepared.
The eclipse will begin at 19:30 and reach its total phase around 20:32, coinciding with sunset. This is the first in a series of eclipses that will take place in Spain: another total eclipse will follow in August 2027, and an annular eclipse in January 2028. The Department of Education, Science, and Universities has organised the exhibition Trío de Eclipses, featuring informative panels about the astronomical significance of the phenomenon.
Safety will be a priority. The Madrid Security Agency (ASEM 112) has activated the Territorial Civil Protection Plan of the Community of Madrid (PLATERCAM) and will reinforce the resources of 112 and the Fire Brigade. A special operation has also been planned to control access and mobility in the area.
The Regional Transport Consortium (CRTM) will enhance bus lines connecting the capital with municipalities that have observation points. Specifically, the frequency of lines 191 (Madrid-Buitrago del Lozoya) and 193 (Madrid-Pedrezuela-Venturada), both departing from the Plaza de Castilla Interchange, will be increased. Lines 725 (Madrid-Miraflores), 726 (Madrid-Guadalix-Navalafuente), 691 (Madrid-Valdesquí/Navacerrada), and in the Henares Corridor, lines 223 (Madrid-Alcalá de Henares) and 222 (Madrid-Meco) will also be reinforced.
Residents of the Community of Madrid who cannot travel to Buitrago will be able to follow the eclipse from one of the 52 observation points distributed throughout the region. All updated information will be available on the website set up by the Community of Madrid for the trio of eclipses 2026-2028.
For residents in the northern mountains, the eclipse will offer a unique opportunity to enjoy an astronomical spectacle in a privileged natural setting. Authorities recommend planning travel in advance and arriving early enough to avoid crowds. Registration for the festival opens tomorrow, and high demand is expected, so it is advisable to keep an eye on the municipal website.
You may also like
