This unit remained intact until the 19th century, comprising three universitats (municipal governments): Vilanova de Palafolls (now Malgrat), Santa Susanna and Sant Genís de Palafolls. The Universitat of Sant Genís had a general council with representatives of the five historic neighbourhoods. The first settlement emerged around the Church of Sant Genís, but in the 16th century growth shifted to Les Ferreries, which became the administrative centre. In the 20th century, immigration led to the establishment of neighbourhoods such as Sant Lluís and Santa Maria. From the 1960s onwards, Palafolls diversified economically with new businesses and residential areas including Ciutat Jardí, Mas Carbó and Mas Reixach, and the municipality evolved beyond its traditional agricultural activity. Today, it blends its historical heritage with modern development and residential expansion.