Medieval genomes from eastern Iberia illuminate the role of Morisco mass deportations in dismantling a long-standing genetic bridge with North Africa

AI interpretationAI-generated

Ancient DNA reveals how Morisco deportations severed Iberia's genetic bridge to North Africa.

This study uses ancient genomes from eastern Spain (Valencia) spanning late antiquity to the post-medieval period to track the genetic impact of the expulsion of Moriscos between 1609 and 1614. At least 300,000 people of mixed Iberian and North African ancestry were deported to North Africa. The genetic bridge that had existed for centuries was abruptly cut. The analysis of five individuals shows a mix of Y-chromosome and mitochondrial lineages, reflecting both European and North African roots.

• The mass deportation of Moriscos in the early 17th century caused a rapid population replacement in eastern Iberia.
• This event dismantled a long-standing genetic bridge between Iberia and North Africa that had persisted for centuries.
• Ancient genomes from Valencia show both European and North African ancestry, consistent with historical records of mixed Morisco communities.

Sample interpretation

Five ancient individuals from the Valencia region were analyzed. Their Y-chromosome lineages include J-S16400, E-Y8827, E-CTS4236, R-Z2110, and E-M81, while mitochondrial lineages are U4a1d, HV0-a, HV, J1c1b, and H5. These haplogroups reflect a blend of European and North African origins, supporting the historical picture of a mixed population before the expulsion.

For genealogy enthusiasts

For ancestry enthusiasts, this study shows how a single historical event can erase centuries of genetic contact. It highlights the value of ancient DNA in tracing migrations and population turnover, and reminds us that genetic bridges can be broken by political decisions.