Esparragalejo (Spanish pronunciation: [es.pa.ra.ɣaˈle.xo]) is a municipality of Spain in the province of Badajoz, autonomous region of Extremadura.

Esparragalejo
Municipality
Flag of Esparragalejo
Esparragalejo is located in Extremadura
Esparragalejo
Esparragalejo
Location of Esparragalejo within Extremadura
Coordinates: 38°56′37″N 6°26′12″W / 38.94361°N 6.43667°W / 38.94361; -6.43667
Country Spain
Autonomous Community Extremadura
ProvinceBadajoz
ComarcaTierra de Mérida - Vegas Bajas
Government
 • MayorJosé Francisco Ramírez Vadillo (PP-EU)
Area
 • Total17 km2 (7 sq mi)
Elevation231 m (758 ft)
Population
 (2018)[1]
 • Total1,459
 • Density86/km2 (220/sq mi)
Time zoneUTC+1 (CET)
 • Summer (DST)UTC+2 (CEST (GMT +2))
Postal code
06860
Area code+34 (Spain) + 924 (Badajoz)
Websitewww.esparragalejo.es

Located about 13 km from Mérida, it is known for its unique Roman multiple arch buttress dam, the Esparragalejo Dam, its two natural lagoons, and its religious festivals. During the festivities to honor the town's patron saint, the Virgin of Good Health (Virgen de la Salud), its inhabitants come to the cathedral to witness the one-hour Mass and then occupy the streets completely. The townspeople take to the streets to put on a procession, to play music, and to put on shows for the town's children.

Origin of name

edit

The name Esparragalejo refers to the communal pastureland known as the Esparragal. A diminutive suffix was added to the town name because the town remained small for many centuries.

References

edit
  1. ^ Municipal Register of Spain 2018. National Statistics Institute.


38°57′N 6°26′W / 38.950°N 6.433°W / 38.950; -6.433