Basílica Paleocristiana de Vega del Mar, Early Christian basilica and archaeological site in Marbella, Spain
Basílica Paleocristiana de Vega del Mar is an early Christian church with three naves and multiple structural layers filled with walls, foundations, and approximately two hundred graves spanning different periods. The interior shows a blend of religious architecture and burial grounds that developed over many centuries.
The original church took shape in the fourth century AD as an early Christian structure. It was later substantially rebuilt during 572 when Byzantine forces controlled this part of the Mediterranean coast.
The basilica served as a spiritual gathering point for early Christian communities and also held burials for the faithful across many generations. The layout reveals how sacred and burial spaces were intertwined in this period's religious practice.
Visitors can explore the site via elevated wooden walkways that provide safe access to the different levels. Information boards positioned along the paths explain the archaeological findings and clarify how the structures fit together.
The excavations uncovered a large fish-shaped baptismal font and a red-colored tombstone, both among Spain's oldest examples of their kind. These discoveries reveal details about early Christian art and symbolism in this region.
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