In northern Spain, archaeologists recently unearthed the remains of a medieval community that lived in natural caves. This society, tucked away from the outside world between the 7th and 11th centuries, had a tough existence marked by disease and internal strife.
The site, known as Las Gobas, revealed the bones of 33 people. Researchers found an alarming 63% of genetic samples indicated inbreeding, which suggests these individuals were largely isolated from outsiders. “Our findings show this group remained cut off for at least five centuries,” said paleogeneticist Ricardo Rodríguez Varela. Their isolation resulted in limited genetic variety, leading to poorer health.
Alongside signs of inbreeding, many skeletons bore fractures and wounds, hinting at frequent violent conflicts within the community.
The excavation also uncovered evidence of smallpox, a deadly disease prevalent in medieval Europe. The residents likely contracted smallpox from contaminated pork, as pigs were a staple food. Without outside contact or modern medicine, any outbreaks could have decimated the population.
Anders Götherström, a senior researcher on the project, noted, “By the 10th century, smallpox seems to have reached Las Gobas, probably spreading through Europe rather than via Islamic routes as once thought.”
Living in isolation made these people particularly vulnerable to disease. Lacking medical care and outside resources, their community faced dire consequences.
By the late 11th century, the troglodyte society abandoned the caves. Experts believe a mix of disease, resource shortages, and external pressures led to their downfall. What was once a bustling community ultimately became a burial site, with many individuals laid to rest within the caves.
This discovery sheds light on the struggles faced by societies hidden away from the greater world. It also invites reflection on how isolation can lead to both physical and cultural vulnerabilities—lessons that remain relevant today.
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