Genetic history of the Iberian Peninsula

The genetic history of the populations of the Iberian Peninsula offers us a comprehensive story that extends over thousands of years, marked by the constant flow of migrations, the interaction between various cultures, and the formation of a rich genetic diversity. Our speaker, Dr. Antonio González-Martín, Associate Professor and researcher of the Physical Anthropology Unit of the Complutense University of Madrid, will guide us on the journey into the depths of this legacy, exploring how the privileged location of the peninsula has been, not only a meeting point for different human groups, but also a natural laboratory for the emergence of the genetic and cultural diversity that today characterizes its inhabitants.

From the arrival of the first Homo sapiens about 44,000 years ago, through the waves of Neolithic farmers, Indo-Europeans, Mediterranean colonizers, and Muslim conquerors of various ethnicities, the conference will show us how each of these groups has made their own contributions to the genetic framework of the region. Dr. González-Martín will highlight the importance of migratory flows and cultural exchanges, showing how these have not only enriched the genetic composition of the Iberian Peninsula, but have also driven its cultural, social, and economic development over the millennia.

This story will also cover significant challenges and transformations, through events such as the Reconquista, the expulsion of Jews and Muslims, and modern migrations, which changed the demography and cultural identity of the peninsula. Dr. González-Martín will examine the latest research and discoveries in population genetics to offer a complete view of the Iberian genetic heritage in time and space, in addition to analyzing the origin and diversity of unique human groups from the peninsular environment. The presentation will conclude with the surprising relationship that exists between the genetic history of populations and biomedicine.

Throughout the lecture, the importance of continuing to unravel the complex genetic mosaic of the Iberian Peninsula to better understand its past and the lessons it can teach us about human nature and coexistence between cultures will be emphasized. Through this fascinating genetic journey, Antonio González-Martín will have offered a global vision that demonstrates how the study of our DNA can offer us surprising stories of adaptation, survival, and coexistence, providing a very valuable perspective to address the challenges of an increasingly globalized world.

Tickets will be available in the coming weeks. Conference language is Spanish.