Skip to main content
< Back to sustainability notes
 11.06.2025

The Sun is nature’s clock

We are about to enter the summer solstice. On 21 June, the sun reaches its highest point in the sky, a moment traditionally celebrated with festivities and rituals in many cultures. The sun guides the hours and has a direct influence on agriculture. For ancient societies, the summer and winter solstices, along with the spring and autumn equinoxes, were key milestones on agricultural calendars.

The first recorded summer solstice celebrations date back to around 3000 BC in ancient Mesopotamia, where the Sumerians honoured the sun god Utu. Many cultures have worshipped the sun, building temples according to its alignment. Today we can still marvel at great architectural works related to the worship of the sun: the pyramids of Egypt, the Temple of the Sun in Machu Picchu, the Ise Shrine, Stonehenge….

Although we are no longer guided by the sundial and have a more modern vision of time, the shortest night of the year is still celebrated with bonfires, music, dancing and fireworks. It’s a good time to celebrate the arrival of summer, connect with nature and meet with friends and family, strengthening social bonds.