Discover the history of Galápagos.
The Galápagos Islands, located approximately 1,000 km off the coast of Ecuador, are famous for being the place where Charles Darwin formulated his theory of evolution. These volcanic islands have a rich diversity of wildlife, including unique species not found anywhere else in the world. The history of the Galápagos dates back millions of years, when the islands emerged from the ocean due to volcanic activities.
The official discovery of the islands occurred in 1535, when the Spanish explorer Fray Tomás de Berlanga arrived at the archipelago accidentally during a voyage to Peru. Over the centuries, the islands were mainly used as a supply point for ships in transit due to their strategic location.
In the 19th century, the Galápagos Islands gained prominence due to Charles Darwin's visit in 1835. The naturalist was impressed by the variety of species and the unique adaptations of animals to local conditions, which led him to develop his theory of natural selection. Subsequently, the Galápagos became a living laboratory for the study of evolution and biodiversity.
Today, the Galápagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular destinations for ecotourism in the world. Wildlife and ecosystem conservation are a priority in the region, with various restrictions and regulations in place to protect endemic species. Tourists visiting the Galápagos have the unique opportunity to interact with untouched nature and observe animals such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and exotic birds up close.
The history of the Galápagos Islands highlights the importance of the archipelago not only as a tourist destination but also as a landmark in science and biodiversity preservation. The legacy left by Charles Darwin continues to inspire scholars and visitors worldwide, keeping the Galápagos Islands as one of the most captivating places on Earth.
Answer obtained by artificial intelligence.
){kind=logo}
)
)
