A rare total solar eclipse swept across Europe on Wednesday, attracting millions of spectators who gathered to witness one of nature's most spectacular astronomical events.

It was the first total solar eclipse visible in Europe in 27 years, following the previous one in August 1999 when the eclipse crossed countries including France, Germany and Austria.

The eclipse path of totality passed through Greenland, Iceland, Spain and a small region of Portugal before ending over the Mediterranean. During totality, when the moon completely blocked the sun, daylight suddenly turned into darkness and the sun's glowing corona became visible. The period of complete darkness lasted more than two minutes in some areas.

Spain was one of the main destinations for eclipse watchers, as the path of totality crossed the northern and central parts of the country before reaching the Balearic Islands. According to the country's National Geographic Institute, it was the first total solar eclipse visible from the Iberian Peninsula in more than a century.

Viewing events were organized across Spain, attracting residents, tourists and astronomy enthusiasts from around the world. In Molina de Aragon, nearly 100 visitors gathered, including travelers from Germany, Poland and Italy. As the moon covered the sun, crowds cheered and captured the moment with cameras and phones. After about 90 seconds, sunlight returned and spectators applauded.

In Madrid, viewers described the experience as remarkable, spectacular and unique. Many said the sudden change from daylight to darkness felt unreal.

Portugal also witnessed the eclipse, although only a narrow area in the northeastern municipality of Braganca fell within the path of totality.

Local media reported that it was the first time since 1912 that a total solar eclipse could be observed from the country. Thousands gathered at Bragança Airport, while people in other cities, such as Lisbon, watched a partial eclipse with famous landmarks including the Belem Tower.

Iceland also offered a glimpse of totality despite cloudy conditions, as a break in the clouds allowed some viewers on the western coast to witness the darkened sky. The sky became completely dark for about two minutes and 13 seconds, creating a dramatic experience for those who were able to see it.

On the same day, a partial solar eclipse was also visible in places including France, the UK, Germany and Croatia, attracting large numbers of spectators.

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon moves between the sun and Earth. A total solar eclipse happens when the three bodies align perfectly, allowing the moon to completely cover the sun. A partial solar eclipse occurs when the three are not perfectly lined up.

Special eclipse glasses are required to safe observation because direct sunlight can damage the eyes. These glasses contain filters designed to block harmful solar radiation.

Beyond the visual spectacle, the eclipse provided scientists with valuable research opportunities. NASA-supported teams planned to chase the moon's shadow with a high-altitude jet and scientific balloons to investigate the sun's dynamics and how the temporary darkening affects the Earth's atmosphere.

"From our unique perspective on Earth during a total solar eclipse, scientists can study the sun's corona in a way we can't from anywhere else in the solar system," said Kelly Korreck, NASA's eclipse program manager.

"The sun impacts our daily life, satellites, and astronauts in space, and we can take advantage of this moment to advance our understanding of that influence," she added.

(With input from agencies)