Difficult days have descended on the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park (Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido): the staff and local residents are shaken by the news of the sudden passing of Elena Villagrasa Ferrer. For the past six years, she led this unique natural sanctuary in Spain, dedicating herself to preserving its ecosystem and fostering regional development.
Elena was born in the small town of Bujaraloz in Zaragoza province. At 60, she remained active and energetic, continuing to work on projects protecting nature and supporting the local community. Her sudden departure came as a shock to colleagues and friends, especially as she had only recently been making plans for the park’s future.
The tragedy occurred in the town of Escalona, where Elena was on a work trip. Local residents and park staff are still struggling to come to terms with what happened. A farewell ceremony is scheduled for Saturday at 17:00 in Bujaraloz, where not only her family but also representatives of environmental organizations and residents from neighboring towns are expected to attend.
During her years as director, Villagrasa made a major contribution to the park’s development, focusing especially on issues of ecology and sustainable tourism. Her efforts were recognized both regionally and nationally. Now, the team faces the difficult task of carrying forward her work and honoring the memory of someone who devoted her life to protecting Aragon’s natural heritage.
