Hermitage of San Bernardo

Torre de Arcas's devotion to San Bernardo, patron of the town and to whom this hermitage and the parish church are dedicated, has a long history. Documentary references date back to 1324, mentioning the existence of a chapel that preceded the construction of the hermitage and the founding of the brotherhood (cofradía) of San Bernardo, which remained active until the end of the 18th century.

The current hermitage, in the late Baroque style, was built between the late 18th and early 19th century, with inscriptions on its façade indicating the dates of 1798 and 1801. Its architecture is distinguished by an elongated octagonal plan, with an elliptical central nave and three chapels attached on each side. The dome is one of its most outstanding features.

During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), a large part of the religious imagery and many paintings were destroyed. However, murals dated to 1847 are preserved, decorating the dome and the drum, depicting female figures from the Old Testament and scenes from the life of San Bernardo, respectively.

Today, the community maintains the tradition of a pilgrimage to the hermitage on 22 August, as part of the Fiestas Mayores celebrated around the feast day of San Bernardo (20 August). After mass, liqueurs and typical pastries are distributed among those present, keeping this deeply rooted Matarraña custom alive.