Fátima pilgrims witness historic solar eclipse

Pilgrims at the Sanctuary of Fátima witnessed a historic solar eclipse during the traditional Pilgrimage of Emigrants. Many gathered at the steps of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary to observe the event.

The eclipse was partial across most of mainland Portugal, ranging between 92% and 99%, while a total solar eclipse was visible only in the Montesinho Natural Park in the northeast. This event marks the first solar eclipse seen in the region since 1912, with the next occurrence not expected until 2144.

For some observers, the celestial event evoked memories of the ‘Miracle of the Sun’ reported in Fátima on October 13, 1917.