History
Santa Cilia's history is linked to the Royal Monastery de San Juan de la Peña as far back as the 10th century. In 1336 "the town was deserted and destroyed by the instability, death and heavy burdens on its neighbours." At about the same time the present layout of the old town was created, consisting of a nearly six blocks, though its straight streets are reminiscent of a Roman camp.
The church was rebuilt, replacing a medieval church with the addition of a bell-tower in 1646. Walls to protect the church from flooding were added in the 18th century.
The old medieval bridge is now broken, but once stretched 160m with eight spans and was an important toll bridge over the River Aragon.
Santa Cilia became a municipality in 1834 and attained its greatest population in 1920 with 520 inhabitants and about 90 houses. However emigration, mainly to Argentina, France and Barcelona reduced its size to the present day level.
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