Ermita de la Virgen de la Silla

The Camino of the Ebro crosses the entire peninsula, from east to west. It leaves from Sant Jaume and crosses the entire community of Aragón, until it connects with the French Way. It also crosses the province of Teruel, which despite the humor that is made at its expense has many enclaves of interest. One of them is in a town of Jiloca called Fonfría. It is the Hermitage of the Virgen de la Silla, and although its origin is unknown, it bears witness to many centuries of history.

The history of this hermitage

The Sanctuary of the Virgen de la Silla dates from around the 18th century, although its foundations are found on the remains of a watchtower established by Ramón Berenguer IV in the 12th century. Previously that area was known as Losilla. Over time, written references to Nuestra Señora Lasilla appeared, due to graphic errors or changes in pronunciation.

It is a hermitage built on a Latin cross plan with a single nave, with an octagonal apse and a dome that crowns the transept. In addition, it incorporates the sacristy, halls for brothers, kitchen, stables and hermit's house. It was partially rebuilt numerous times throughout its history: three repairs were made in the 19th century, and in 1936 it was looted and partially burned.

It also suffered robberies during the 20th century: the two bells disappeared, an image of the Virgin from the Baroque period (which was recovered) and an image of the Virgin that according to legend was donated by Jaime I of Aragón. From 1989 a more cohesive restoration began until reaching the hermitage that we know today.

This hermitage is surrounded by a large pilgrimage field, so it is where many of the local events take place. The regions of the area hold a pilgrimage on the last Sunday of May, and also gather for the Immaculate Conception, in December, to place a nativity scene.