"Ancient Spanish find hints Roman-era 'church' might be a synagogue"

Cástulo, once a thriving Roman settlement in what is now Andalucía, is renowned for its well-preserved mosaics, including one depicting scenes of lovers and another featuring the mythical hero Hercules. While the town's Jewish population was likely small, the discovery suggests they lived alongside the larger Christian and pagan communities before fading into obscurity.

"These findings are important because they show the coexistence of different religious groups during a period of significant change," said Expósito Mangas. "We know Christianity was spreading at this time, but Judaism still had a presence in places like Cástulo."

The researchers emphasize that further excavation and analysis are needed to confirm the building's true function. If proven to be a synagogue, it would offer rare insight into Jewish life in Roman Spain.

CuriosityNews has previously reported on other archaeological discoveries in the region, though this could be one of the first examples of tangible Jewish remains in late Roman Andalucía. The team hopes future research will clarify the extent and influence of Castulo’s forgotten Jewish community.