Uncovered in 1931 during Rome’s fascist-era building planning, The Mithraeum at Circus Maximus is one of the biggest secret Mithraic temples in the city.

The temple dates back to the 2nd century. It showcases five parallel chambers connected to a central sanctuary that features paved white marble and two alcoves for the statues of Cautopates and Caute. Although several Mithraic temples have been discovered in London, France, Germany, and Hungary, not much is known about this ancient movement that was popular from the 1st to the 4th centuries. The cult died out once Christianity took hold at the end of the 4th century, but today these subterranean spaces, dedicated to the god Mithras offer some insight into this once hidden sect.

Via del Circo Massimo, 00186, Rome, Italy, Phone: +39-06-7-74-00-21

Campo de Fiori Casina Delle Civette Colosseum Galleria Borghese Galleria Sciarra Keats Shelley Memorial House Meridian Line of the Basilica of St Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs Museo Nazionale delle Pasta Alimentari (National Pasta Museum) Pantheon Piazza Venezia Pyramid of Cestius Quartiere Coppede Roman Forum Santa Maria Della Concezione Spanish Steps St. Peter’s Basilica The Mithraeum at Circus Maximus The Roman Guy Torre Argentina (Roman Cat Sanctuary) Katie Parla Trevi Fountain Vatican Museums Casa Mia Villa Borghese Gardens Zuccari Palace

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