Possible Roman-Era Synagogue Unearthed in Spain
Published: July 28, 2025 — by Marina Valigura
In a groundbreaking reassessment of past excavations, archaeologists in southern Spain believe they may have uncovered one of the country’s oldest known synagogues, dating back to the 4th century CE. The findings were reported by The Guardian.
The structure is located in the ancient settlement of Cástulo, near modern-day Linares. Originally unearthed between 1985 and 1991, the rectangular building was long assumed to be an early Christian basilica. However, recent discoveries suggest a different story.
Archaeologists now point to fresh evidence—including fragments of oil lamps with menorah motifs, roof tiles featuring a five-branched candlestick, and a jug lid inscribed with Hebrew phrases. According to researchers, these inscriptions may translate to expressions like “Light of Forgiveness” or “Song of David.”
Lead archaeologist Bautista Ceprián noted that the building’s layout is closer to a square, aligning more with traditional synagogue architecture, where prayer revolves around a central platform (bimah). This contrasts with the elongated nave and apse typical of Christian basilicas.
The building’s location, adjacent to the remains of a Roman bathhouse—often associated with pagan rituals during early Christian times—may also indicate the presence of a Jewish community choosing to settle near culturally significant landmarks.
If confirmed, this discovery could mark the synagogue as one of the earliest on Spanish soil, predating most known examples which are generally from the medieval period. Though written records are scarce, the archaeological evidence presents a compelling narrative of a peaceful Jewish-Christian coexistence during the late Roman Empire.
“There will be criticism, and that’s to be expected,” said Ceprián. “But we believe our findings are supported by solid scientific reasoning.”
The discovery adds a vital piece to the puzzle of Spain’s multicultural history, potentially rewriting the timeline of Jewish presence in the Iberian Peninsula.
Previously, a British WWI shipwreck—the HMS Nottingham—was located in the North Sea, offering another glimpse into Europe’s layered past.
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