Galapagar
is located in the foothills of Mountain range of Guadarrama. It is part of the
Regional Park of the Middle Course of the River Guadarrama, characterized by
the predominance of the Mediterranean forest as well as by the existence of
ample green areas.
The name Galapagar comes from the Spanish galápago, meaning
giant tortoise, as the town centre was settled near a lake full of tortoises.
That is why these animals are represented in the official seal of the
municipality.
This area, largely agrarian, suffered from
mid-twentieth century a massive migration from the countryside to cities,
prompting the emergence of a large number of developments. This has contributed
to the growth of the population residing in the township from 5,000 inhabitants
in 1975 to over 35,000 today.
Population
Galapagar
is the 22nd most populated municipality of the Community of Madrid. Its
population has doubled in the last ten years, exceeding the altitude of 35,000
people.
At
the moment, Galapagar is a dormitory town of Madrid. It counts on a good number
of citizens of foreign origin (a 17% of its registered population). It is home to many unnatural- born citizens, originating
of the rest of Community of Madrid.
Festivities
Festivals
in Galapagar are celebrated every year on the 14th of September, a
holiday in honor of the Holy Christ of Mercy, patron of the town. During these
days a series of activities are organized with the participation of the entire
population. These festivals stand out
for the sport championships celebrated as well as popular concerts with the
participation of national and international artists.
Education
In
Galapagar there are 9 kindergartens, four Public Schools from kindergartens to
elementary education, two High Schools and three Private Schools. It also has
an educational center for adults with a wide range of training courses.
Source: Own Elaboration
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