Las Gobas cave in Spain was home to a medieval Christian community that left behind a fascinating tale of inbreeding, violence, and disease. This community, which lived in artificial caves carved into a rocky outcrop, offers a unique insight into the lives of people during the turbulent early medieval period in Iberia.
The study, published in Science Advances, sheds light on the genetic ancestry of the community, their relationships, and the diseases that plagued them. By analyzing DNA from the remains found in the site’s cemetery, researchers were able to uncover a story of isolation, violence, and devout worship.
The settlement at Las Gobas existed from the mid-sixth century to the 11th century A.D. This period was marked by significant political and social changes in Iberia, including the collapse of the Visigothic kingdom and the conquest of Muslim armies from North Africa. Despite these upheavals, Christian kingdoms in the north of the peninsula persisted and gradually reclaimed territory.
The inhabitants of Las Gobas were predominantly of local Iberian ancestry, with minimal genetic influence from North Africans. This aligns with historical records indicating limited genetic exchange between populations in northern Iberia during the middle ages. However, some individuals did show higher North African ancestry, likely as a result of migration after the Muslim conquest.
Evidence of inbreeding was prevalent in the community, with approximately 61% of the sample showing signs of inbreeding. This suggests that the population practiced endogamy, marrying only within the community. Analysis of Y-chromosome variations revealed that several of the earliest males were closely related, indicating a small patrilocal group that may have had experience in warfare.
The early phase of the settlement at Las Gobas also revealed cases of violence, with two skeletons showing signs of sword blows to the head. These individuals were genetically closely related, suggesting a connection between the violence and familial ties. Interestingly, one of the individuals survived a skull injury caused by a sword blow, highlighting the resilience of the community members.
The presence of the bacterium Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae in the settlement indicates a close relationship with domestic animals, particularly pigs. This bacterium, which causes a skin disease in humans, likely originated from the livestock kept by the community. Additionally, the presence of Yersinia enterocolitica in one individual points to infections from contaminated meat or water.
Endogamy remained a strong feature of the population throughout its history, even as the community transitioned from cave dwellings to a more typical rural settlement in the tenth century. During this later phase, DNA from the variola virus, responsible for smallpox, was detected in a tenth-century individual. The strain of smallpox found at Las Gobas closely resembled those found in Scandinavia, Russia, and Germany during the same period, suggesting a possible route of transmission from the east.
The site of Las Gobas offers a rare glimpse into the lives of a medieval Christian community living away from the major urban centers of Iberia. The transition from cave dwellings to a rural village reflects the changing dynamics of the time, marked by disease, violence, and isolation. By combining genetic analysis with archaeological evidence, researchers have pieced together a compelling narrative of a community that faced adversity with resilience and faith.
Subheadings:
1. Genetic Ancestry and Relationships
2. Signs of Inbreeding and Violence
3. Disease and Resilience in the Community
As the study of Las Gobas continues to unravel the mysteries of this medieval Christian community, researchers are certain to uncover more insights into the lives of these cave-dwelling Christians. The unique combination of genetic analysis and archaeological evidence provides a comprehensive view of a community that thrived in the face of adversity, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, faith, and survival.
