The caliphate fortress of Gormaz, a historic structure dating back to the 10th century, has served as a silent observer to six total solar eclipses throughout its long history. Perched on a promontory overlooking the Castilian plateau, the monument features 28 towers and 1,200 metres of walls. On 12 August 2026, it is set to witness its seventh, this time accompanied by a massive influx of domestic and international visitors.
Because the path of totality passes in close proximity to the thousand-year-old site, thousands of tourists have traveled to the province of Soria to view the phenomenon. This event is particularly significant as it marks the first total solar eclipse visible over the Iberian Peninsula since 1912. Projections suggest the astronomical event could trigger between 400,000 and 1.5 million additional car journeys toward areas within the path of totality.
Authorities estimate that the influx could bring up to 164,000 international visitors and 282,700 domestic tourists to the region. The event provides a unique opportunity for inland towns such as Gormaz to gain visibility, shifting the spotlight away from the traditional sun-and-beach coastal destinations that usually dominate foreign tourism in Spain.
