Archaeological excavations in the Chapel of Sant Joan Sescloses in Vilanova de la Muga (Catalonia, Spain) have shed new light on the history of the region. A team of archaeologists from the Institute of Empordà Studies (IEE), led by Anna Maria Puig, discovered the remains of a 4th-5th century Roman mausoleum, including at least three white marble Christian sarcophagi.
In addition to other findings are three Hebrew tombstones from the 14th century, possibly originating from the Castelló d'Empúries cemetery, incorporated into the steps of the 15th-century chapel's entrance. Fragments of Roman ceramics were also discovered, confirming the long-term settlement of this territory.
In the course of several excavation campaigns, which began in recent years, archaeologists revealed an 8th–11th century cemetery around the apse of a pre-Romanesque church. Some burials were accompanied by grave goods — ceramic vessels, the contents of which were chemically analyzed.
The excavations are part of a project focusing on the study of the population and architecture of the area around the Castelló pond during the High Middle Ages. In the course of the research, a Romanesque renovation associated with the 1064 consecration was also identified, which included the expansion of the building and the relocation of the church's entrance to the west.
These discoveries expand understanding of the historical and architectural evolution of the Chapel of Sant Joan Sescloses and the surrounding territory, complementing knowledge of the region's cultural heritage.