Madrid is located slightly south of the strip of totality and the black sun will set over the capital at approximately 99%. However, the pollution and light contamination of its skies, added to the number of buildings that prevent seeing the horizon, complicate viewing. It is difficult, but not impossible: there are four places in the center of Madrid where we can see the astronomical event.
Temple of Debod
This Egyptian temple in the center of Madrid was built by King Meroe Adijalamani in the 2nd century BC and dedicated to the gods Amun and Isis. However, with the construction of the Aswan Dam, the government of Cairo donated it to Spain to prevent it from flooding.
It was rebuilt stone by stone on the Príncipe Pío mountain in 1972, maintaining its original east-west orientation. Thanks to that elevation and that look towards the western sunsets, its sunsets are famous among all Madrid residents and, therefore, its almost total eclipse at 8:32 p.m.
Retiro Park
The lung of Madrid has gardens, trees, shade, culture, leisure, sports and on August 12, 2026, it will also offer the best views of the eclipse from the capital. Its beauty has earned it the title of UNESCO Heritage Site and its multiple open areas with views to the west, such as the Crystal Palace or the pond, are a perfect option to witness the almost total eclipse without leaving the city.
Agustín Rodríguez Sahagún Park
According to the Astronomical Association of Madrid, this park in Tetouan is one of the best locations to see the solar eclipse, thanks to its viewpoint facing west and elevated above the buildings in the area. Its wide meadows full of trees are ideal for having a picnic, lying on a blanket and watching, using approved glasses, the solar phenomenon live.
Cottage
It is one of the largest urban parks in all of Europe and its wide open spaces allow you to see the sun close to the horizon, combining the skyline of Madrid with the solar eclipse in a perfect line of sight. To ensure viewing, the ideal is to climb Garabitas Hill, 677 meters high and one of the highest points, used by the park rangers.
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