Archaeologists in southern Spain have uncovered ancient artifacts, including oil lamp fragments and a roof tile with menorah symbols, that suggest the presence of a previously undocumented Jewish community in Castulo during the late fourth or early fifth century. The discoveries have led researchers to reconsider the identity of a nearby structure, once believed to be a Christian church, as potentially one of the oldest synagogues in Spain. The absence of Christian artifacts and burials further supports this hypothesis, while the structure's location on the city's outskirts aligns with early synagogue patterns. Although no written records confirm the community's existence, experts say these findings provide compelling evidence of early Jewish life on the Iberian Peninsula, highlighting both its historical significance and the community's eventual disappearance due to societal intolerance.

Original article source: https://www.ynetnews.com/jewish-world/article/h1ite64pxg
Source Id: 2025-07-789138954