Archaeological excavations in modern-day Spain have revealed the remains of a Byzantine-era fort, El Monastil, which was once used as a monastery. The site, located 75 miles from the port city of Cartagena, was likely established during the Byzantine Empire and continued to be used under Visigothic and Islamic rule. The discovery was made by archaeologists who believe it was likely built by people from the eastern Roman Empire who settled in the nearby city of La Alcudia. The 900-square-foot church is believed to have been built by Roman soldiers and clergy in the second half of the sixth century C.E. Artifact and architectural analyses reveal that the site served multiple religious functions throughout its history. Other discoveries included a suit of armor worn by a Byzantine cavalry soldier, seven bronze weights used for tax collection, a Parian marble altar table (originally from Greece), a pyx, and a ceramic seal representing the Blessed Virgin Mary.