Semitransparent chalcogen solar cells and techniques for fabrication thereof are provided. In one aspect, a method of forming a solar cell includes: forming a first transparent contact on a substrate; depositing an n-type layer on the first transparent contact; depositing a p-type chalcogen absorber layer on the n-type layer, wherein a p-n junction is formed between the p-type chalcogen absorber layer and the n-type layer; depositing a protective interlayer onto the p-type chalcogen absorber layer, wherein the protective interlayer fully covers the p-type chalcogen absorber layer; and forming a second transparent contact on the interlayer, wherein the interlayer being disposed between the p-type chalcogen absorber layer and the second transparent contact serves to protect the p-n junction during the forming of the second transparent contact. Solar cells and other methods for formation thereof are also provided.