Lorraine Williamson
Abandoned and overrun with weeds, Ronda’s Parque de Galia is now experiencing a revival, thanks to the efforts of local residents.
Once a forgotten green space, the park now draws walkers, families, and nature lovers. The transformation, led by community members, is a testament to the power of local initiative.
A park in decline
Known for its dramatic gorge and iconic bridge, Ronda is a town full of picturesque spots. However, Parque de Galia had long been overlooked. The park had fallen into disrepair, with overgrown paths, broken playground equipment, and litter scattered around. The quiet area, once a serene escape, had become a shadow of its former self. But a group of committed locals decided to change that.
The power of neighbourhood unity
A handful of determined residents began clearing the park, picking up rubbish, trimming bushes, and restoring pathways. Their shared goal was simple: to reclaim the space for everyone to enjoy. Among the group were two elderly men, both named Juan, who had quietly tended to the park’s trees for years, showing that even the smallest efforts can have a lasting impact.
The role of ‘Los Juanes’
One of the park’s staunchest guardians is Juan Nieto, a retired waiter. At 85 years of age, he still tends to the trees in the park every day. For years, he and his neighbour, also Juan, cared for the park’s holm oaks and cork oaks, nurturing them with the love and attention he would give his own children. Despite facing setbacks, such as vandals damaging the trees, Juan never gave up. “Even when they set one tree on fire, I kept going,” he explains, showing the fresh shoots growing where the damaged tree had once stood. His resilience has inspired others in the community to take action.
A renewed hope for the park’s future
As the park continues to improve, the volunteers hope the local council will follow through on promises to renovate the area fully. “We are doing this for everyone,” says Juan, a sentiment echoed by others in the neighbourhood. Today, the park is once again a place where people stop to relax, children play, and families enjoy the outdoors. It serves as a living example of how local action can breathe new life into forgotten spaces.
A community’s triumph
The revival of Parque de Galia reminds us of the impact a group of dedicated individuals can have on their community. Through their efforts, a neglected area has been restored.
Also read: Tajo Gorge walkway in Ronda