Eclipse 2027 in South-East Sicily: times, percentage, and where to see it
On August 2, 2027, the Sun will be covered by about 92-93% in Siracusa, Noto, and Ragusa. Times, where to watch, difference with Lampedusa, and how to protect your eyes.
On August 2, 2027, a major solar eclipse will cross the Mediterranean and North Africa. In South-East Sicily, it will be partial but very deep: the Sun will be covered by about 92-93% in Siracusa, Noto, and Ragusa.
To see a total eclipse from Italy, you will have to wait until 2081, making this a rare opportunity.
Summary of times and percentages
Siracusa: starts at 10:03, maximum at 11:19, ends at 12:38, with about 92% of the Sun covered.
Noto and Ragusa: about 93% of the Sun covered, with the maximum between 11:15 and 11:25 depending on the source.
In comparison, in Lampedusa, the coverage exceeds 99%. The times are local and calculated: check them again close to the date.
Will totality be visible from Sicily?
No. The path of totality passes over the sea, in the Strait of Sicily, and in Italy, the eclipse remains partial almost everywhere. From the South-East, you will see the Sun heavily covered, not completely dark.
What will you really see?
It will not be night. With coverage around 92-93%, the light drops noticeably and becomes cooler, shadows become sharp, and the temperature may drop a few degrees, but the sky does not turn dark as during totality.
The part of the Sun that remains is still very bright.
Where to watch the eclipse
The Sun will be high, about 60 degrees above the horizon, so no low sea views are needed: you need a spot with an open sky and few obstacles above you. A beach, a terrace, a wide square, or a viewpoint in the baroque centers will work well.
Check on a day in August, around 11, where the shadows of buildings and trees fall. In protected areas, such as the Vendicari Reserve, check the access rules valid for that day beforehand.
Is the South-East better or Lampedusa?
Lampedusa is the only Italian location where the Sun will be almost completely covered, over 99%, but it is a distant island, and according to the press, accommodations are already fully booked for that date.
Between 93% and 99%, the difference in light is noticeable. In the South-East, you have lower coverage, but also baroque cities, beaches, and cuisine: the eclipse becomes part of a week-long trip, not the only reason.
Those who want true totality must go where the Sun completely disappears, for example, in southern Spain or North Africa.
How to get there
The most convenient airports are Catania, the largest in the area, and Comiso, near Ragusa. The August 2027 schedules should be checked when airlines publish their programs.
Once on site, a car is the most practical means: the distances between the villages are short, but public transport is limited.
How to watch it safely
Even with the Sun covered by 92% it should never be looked at with the naked eye: the remaining part is bright enough to damage your eyesight.
You need sunglasses with a solar filter certified according to the ISO 12312-2 standard: check that the label and the CE mark are printed on the glasses, and do not use them if the lenses are scratched or damaged.
Sunglasses, tinted glasses, CDs, or DIY films are not safe. Binoculars and telescopes require solar filters mounted in front of the lens; the same applies to cameras and smartphones.
Buy your glasses in advance, without waiting until the last moment.
What to bring with you
In August, by mid-morning, it’s already very hot: bring water, a hat, and sunscreen, along with the glasses you’ve already checked.
Arrive at the location around 10:00, before the eclipse begins, so you can choose your spot calmly and not miss the initial phase.
Where to stay
August 2 falls in the height of summer and interest in the event is growing. If you plan to witness the eclipse in the South-East, it’s advisable to write to hosts well in advance.
On marzamemi.com you can find vacation homes, villas, and apartments in the gems of the South-East and contact the host directly.
What to do in the days around the eclipse
The eclipse lasts about two and a half hours: the rest of the week is a journey. If you want to see the coast from the sea, there’s a boat tour that connects Marzamemi, Vendicari, and Portopalo.
To taste Ortigia with a guide, there’s a walking food tour with tastings. You can book on GetYourGuide: always check the tour page for available days and times for the dates you are interested in. Affiliate link.
Frequently asked questions about the 2027 eclipse in Sicily
When will the eclipse be in Sicily?
On August 2, 2027, between 10:00 and about 12:40, with the maximum around 11:15-11:20.
How much of the Sun will be covered in Siracusa?
About 92%. In Noto and Ragusa about 93%.
Will the eclipse be total in Sicily?
No. In Italy it is partial; in Lampedusa and Pantelleria the Sun will be almost completely covered.
Do you need glasses to watch the eclipse?
Yes, always: glasses with ISO 12312-2 certified filter. Regular sunglasses are not enough.
What if the sky is cloudy?
In August, the historical average cloudiness in Siracusa is around 18%, so the chances of a clear sky are good, but no data guarantees it for that day.
With clouds, you will still notice the drop in light at its peak, without seeing the covered Sun. Check the forecasts in the days leading up to it, and if possible, have an alternative spot ready.
Know someone thinking about coming to Sicily? Send them this guide.