Magdalena is a village in Socorro County, New Mexico, United States. The population was 913 at the 2000 census. The Lady on the Mountain is a rock formation on Magdalena Peak overlooking Magdalena. Spanish soldiers saw the face of a woman on the west face of the peak. A priest with them was reminded of a similar peak in Spain called "La Sierra de Maria Magdalena", so he called the New Mexico one "La Sierra de Magdalena". The natural pass to the south of the peak became known as Magdalena Gap, and when a town grew up it received the same name. Magdalena has recently been trying to transform itself into an art center and cultural destination. The opening of at least a dozen art galleries, a woolery, the renovation of the Bank West Building and the Magdalena Hall Hotel have all made their mark on this mountain village. Several rock and mineral shops have been around since the mining boom days. The ghost town of Kelly, and 2 important festivals: the Lady Magdalen Art Walk, and the Old Timers Reunion and Rodeo bring tourists to the area. Newly-paved roads, additions to the large school, a public water system, trash disposal service and the opening of a new Mini-Mart and Gas Station have improved the quality of life for its citizens. The Very Large Array is located close to the community.