Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus
Welcome to the hidden heart of ancient Rome, where mystery and history come together in the Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus. This unique site, located beneath the pulsating streets of Rome, offers a fascinating window into an ancient cult and its secret rituals. Get ready to discover one of the lesser-known but incredibly fascinating treasures of the Italian capital.
WELCOME TO THE
Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus
The Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus is a place of worship used by adepts of the Mithraic religion to celebrate their rites. This mystery cult, widespread in the Mediterranean since the 1st century B.C., is shrouded in secrecy and fragmentation of its information. The Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus, with its underground spaces and unique features, offers a truly valuable visitor experience.
Discovered in 1931, the Mithraeum is a rare testament to a mystery cult that has fascinated scholars and visitors for decades. Its underground location and restricted access make each visit an exclusive experience, away from the crowds, where history, religion and archaeology are woven into a fascinating tale. Come discover the hidden charms of Rome through the Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus and be enchanted by this secret corner of the city.
A layered place, open to discovery
In the immensity of Rome’s archaeological sites, the Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus represents a hidden treasure. Located under the former Pantanella Pasta Factory, near the Circus Maximus, the mithraeum interrupts the road continuity between these ancient market and cult areas. Its discovery in 1931 revealed a treasure trove of historical and architectural layers that tell a complex and fascinating story.
A layered place, all to be discovered
While Rome offers countless historical gems in the open air, some of its most intriguing treasures lie buried beneath the modern metropolis. The Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus is one such place, hidden beneath the former Pastificio Pantanella. Its location not only tells the story of ancient Rome, but also reveals how urban spaces have transformed over the centuries, keeping secrets buried in time.
Historical Location
The Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus went through four phases of use and architectural development, from the late Republic to the 3rd-4th centuries CE. Each successive phase has left clear traces, with recognizable elements. The final phase saw the transformation of the site into a mithraeum, with minimal architectural interventions to the earlier structure.
Virtual Tour
A history yet to be written
Excavations at the Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus have unearthed numerous finds of extraordinary value. Prominent among them is the large bas-relief of Mithras performing tauroctony (killing of a bull), a visual spectacle that captures the essence of the cult. Together with dedicatory inscriptions and other ritual objects, these finds offer a tangible and engaging picture of the cult of Mithras, enriching our understanding of these ancient practices.
A history yet to be written
Excavations at the Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus have unearthed numerous finds of extraordinary value. Prominent among them is the large bas-relief of Mithras performing tauroctonia, a visual spectacle that captures the essence of the cult. Together with dedicatory inscriptions and other ritual objects, these finds offer a tangible and engaging picture of the cult of Mithras, enriching our understanding of these ancient practices.
Virtual Tour of the Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus
What is presented on this page is a virtual tour made by MMSE.
The virtual tour consists of a series of 360-degree photographs taken in situ, which were then “edited” to form an organic whole.
The photos were taken with cameras specifically for this kind of format. The post production process, on the other hand, was done using special software.
The virtual tour is enhanced by the ability to navigate the site in almost total freedom through the simple use of the mouse or touch screen.
Lastly, virtual guides have been added at strategic points, illustrating to the digital visitor the highlights of this peculiar and definitely still mysterious place.
