ARCHIVED - Stunning summer solstice sunset in Benidorm
Two hundred people gathered to see the annual phenomenon in the Marina Baixa, Alicante province on Monday, June 21.
Benidorm was once again treated to a stunning summer solstice sunset on Monday evening, June 21, with a spectacular natural show visible from the Partida dels Marxassos in the Costa Blanca resort.
Just after 8pm, two hundred people gathered to witness the phenomenon, on the day the sun reaches its highest point, before making its descent after crossing the Tajo de Roldán (El Portell, in Valencian) of Puig Campana, the cut in the mountain that configures its spectacular appearance, visible from its northern and southern slopes.
The sight can only be seen from the Partida dels Marxassos in Benidorm, and every year more and more people are attracted to the resort to catch a glimpse of the unique spectacle.
In fact, the summer solstice sun set in Benidorm is so impressive it has attracted the attention of an international benchmark in research, the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC), which broadcast the event through the sky-live.tv channel.
This year, in light of the pandemic, a small scale gathering - compared to previous years - was held at Sant Juame cemetery, organised by the council and cultural associations including Taula de Bon Profit and the Recreational Cultural Association 'La Barqueta' of Benidorm.
And they were not disappointed as the sun set after crossing the characteristic cut in the mountain, approximately 25 metres wide and 50 metres high, observed and photographed with the mandatory eye protection.
The summer solstice is the longest day of the year. In the Northern Hemisphere it is in June, while in the Southern Hemisphere it's in December.
IMAGE: Ayuntamiento de Benidorm