Astronomy Fans Witness Rare Muntanya Solar Alignment in Ordino's Arcalís

Astronomy enthusiasts gathered at Ordino's Pic d’Arcalís before dawn on 7 and 8 August to witness the Muntanya Solar phenomenon, where the first rays of sunrise passed through a natural opening in the peak for about three minutes around 7:37am each day.

The annual event, one of the Pyrenees' most distinctive solar displays, occurs on 7 August when sunlight aligns precisely with the mountain's rock formation and the observer's position. This year, unusual astronomical conditions enabled a rare repeat viewing on 8 August, drawing hikers, photographers and visitors to the site.

Rediscovered in modern times by Bonaventura Adellach, the peak's alignment reflects years of study into its links with the sun and ancient timekeeping methods used by Pyrenean inhabitants. Researchers believe early valley dwellers knew of the event and may have viewed the mountain as sacred, tied to sun worship, functioning as a natural solar calendar for primitive shepherds.

The site's uniqueness also led to the 2021 opening of the Tristaina Solar Viewpoint on Pic de Peyreguils at 2,701 metres. This large metal sphere, 25 metres in diameter and weighing 32 tonnes, serves as a sundial and tribute to Adellach's work, offering 360-degree vistas of the Tristaina glacial cirque, Ordino Arcalís and France's Auzat valleys.

Grandvalira Mountain Guides organised trips for both days, including professional-led hikes, breakfasts after sunrise and options to visit the Tristaina lakes circuit or the Mirador Solar. Summer programming also features guided night walks to the lakes.

Ordino Arcalís has planned a viewing of the partial solar eclipse on 12 August at the Tristaina Solar Viewpoint, accessible by Creussans chairlift. Attendees will get expert guidance and certified eclipse glasses, with places limited and the event ending in a dinner at the new Borda de la Coma.