PHOTOS: Millions gather to watch Europe's first total solar eclipse in decades

Millions of people flocked to Spain on Wednesday, seeking clear skies to witness a total solar eclipse, a rare celestial event not seen in the country for over a century. The alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth plunged parts of the planet into brief darkness as the moon completely covered the sun's light.

Across a wide swathe of northern and central Spain, millions anticipated some of the best views of the eclipse in mainland Europe. The phenomenon, known as totality, was expected to last less than 2.5 minutes at its maximum duration, diminishing as it moved towards Spain just before sunset. A sliver of Greenland and Iceland also had a chance to witness the event, weather permitting.

Spectators arrived with lawn chairs, umbrellas, and hats, eagerly awaiting the spectacle that began in the early evening. In Medinaceli, a historic hilltop town, sky watchers secured viewing spots hours in advance, filling local restaurants and bars. "It's the first time in my lifetime that I'll get to see a total eclipse in Spain," said Óscar Pérez, a 24-year-old physics student who traveled from Germany. "I'm not sure where the next one is, so it'll be great to see it."

Spanish authorities launched a significant public safety campaign to manage the expected influx of at least half a million visitors, despite scorching summer temperatures and wildfire concerns. Hotel occupancy along the path of totality, including in cities like A Coruña, Bilbao, and Santiago de Compostela, saw a surge in demand. The Interior Ministry established 350 official viewing sites in the sparsely populated interior, known as "Empty Spain," while restricting access to 123 other locations due to environmental or potential evacuation challenges.

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It's the first time in my lifetime that I'll get to see a total eclipse in Spain. I'm not sure where the next one is, so it'll be great to see it.