DNA reveals origins of medieval Jewish community in Tàrrega

A UAB study analyzes remains of sixteen victims from the 1348 pogrom at les Roquetes necropolis.

Generic image of an archaeological excavation with ancient skeletal remains.
IA

Generic image of an archaeological excavation with ancient skeletal remains.

Researchers from the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona have conducted a groundbreaking genetic study on the medieval Jewish community of Tàrrega, focusing on remains from the les Roquetes necropolis.

The study, led by Dr. Cristina Santos and published in the journal Genes, examined the DNA of sixteen individuals killed during the 1348 pogrom. Findings indicate a primary ancestry linked to Ancient Levant populations, combined with local Iberian genetic contributions resulting from centuries of coexistence in Catalonia.
The analysis confirms that while the community maintained a distinct biological identity connected to the Middle East, they were well-integrated into the local society. The lack of direct family ties among the victims supports the historical records of a sudden, catastrophic massacre in the Urgell region.
Coordinated by the Museum Tàrrega Urgell, this research sets a new European standard for using cutting-edge genomic technology to study ancient Jewish diaspora communities and preserve historical heritage.