When the sun shines through the Martin’s hole onto the church tower
The fascinating natural spectacle around the legendary Martinsloch is about to happen again. On Wednesday, 12 and Thursday, 13 March 2025, the sun shines through the natural rock window directly onto the church spire of Elm.
It is a magical sight when, just before sunrise, the sun’s rays shine through the St. Martin’s window and illuminate the tower of the late Gothic church in the Glarus region. The event lasts only about five minutes, after which the sun disappears to rise definitively over the Tschingelhörner mountains shortly afterwards.
This natural spectacle of light and shadow can be observed for two days, and with a bit of luck in terms of the weather, on 12 March the sun will shine directly on the Elm church at exactly 08:53. On 13 March the event will be repeated at 08:50. Meeting point from 8:00 at the church in Elm.
The sun can also be seen on the village street before and after the event. The locations will be marked and there will be exciting explanations by a specialist on all days. More information on the exact times: elm.ch/sonnenereignis.
An exciting setting with regional products and culinary delights
Hans Rhyner, an expert on the subject, will provide information on the phenomenon. The event will be followed by a guided tour of the slate board factory in Elm with local guides.
On both days, there will also be stands offering a variety of local delicacies. The GeoGuides will also be manning a stand with interesting information about the UNESCO World Heritage Site Tectonic Arena Sardona.
Culinary & Accommodation
The surrounding hotels and guesthouses will tempt visitors with delicious dishes and comfortable rooms for those who want to combine the natural spectacle with an overnight stay.
Image caption:
Elm Martinsloch Sun Event I VISIT Glarnerland AG / Maya Rhyner
SUN EVENT AUTUMN 2025
The next opportunity to observe the sun event in the Martinsloch is on 29 and 30 September 2025..
MOON EVENT IN AUTUMN 2025
The next moon event in the Martinsloch will take place on Sunday, 5 October, when the full moon will shine directly on the church spire.
