Archaeologists have discovered two Visigothic churches in Roses, Alt Empordà, dating from the 7th to 9th centuries AD. The findings were made during rehabilitation work at Mas Montjoi de Baix, a private property within the Cap de Creus Natural Park.
While historical documents mentioned these structures, their physical remains had not been located until now. The archaeological team believes the area may hold more undiscovered structures and awaits a master plan to define their protection.
The archaeological intervention began six years ago, prompted by the rehabilitation of the mas, which is protected as a local cultural heritage site. The presence of ancient remains in the area was already known.
Dating the Discoveries
Marcel Pujol, director of the archaeological intervention, explained that carbon-14 dating of human remains found in tombs around the temples helped establish the churches' timelines. No ceramic materials were found to assist with dating.
One church appears to have been active during both the Visigothic and Carolingian eras. Human remains found nearby include a burial from the 7th century and two children from the 9th century. Pujol noted, "this means that this church was active before the arrival of the Muslims and also afterwards."
The second church, however, seems to have been destroyed during the Muslim invasion and was never rebuilt. Pujol stated that this discovery "is consistent with documentary sources that speak of a church completely razed by the Muslims."
Historical Context and Future Plans
Historical records suggested the existence of a monastic complex in the area, comprising three cells or religious buildings dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel, the Saviour, and the Mother of God. Pujol commented that "many historians knew these sources, but no one had found these churches." Researchers are still working to determine which documented temple corresponds to each discovered church, and if a third temple exists.
Beyond the churches, archaeologists also found a large water deposit divided into three sections. The first church was located a few metres from this cistern after researchers noticed a structure built with lime mortar on one of the property's terraces. The second church was uncovered during preliminary soundings for a wastewater tank, revealing its apse.
The work is ongoing, and archaeologists believe the subsoil could hide more structures linked to both the monastery and an ancient settlement. Pujol highlighted that "a monastery is not just a church. There can be annexes, cemeteries, monks' dwellings, kitchens, or warehouses." The team is awaiting decisions on future excavations and the establishment of conservation, restoration, and musealisation criteria for the site.
