Mithraeum

Mithraea), sometimes spelled Mithreum and Mithraion (Ancient Greek: Μιθραίον), is a temple erected in classical antiquity by the worshippers of Mithras.

While most Mithraea are underground, some feature openings in the ceiling to allow light to enter, a reminder of the connection to the universe and the passage of time.

Many mithraea that follow this basic plan are scattered over much of the Roman Empire's former territory, mainly where the legions were stationed along the frontiers (such as Britain).

Similarly, the Persians call the place a cave where they introduce an initiate to the Mysteries, revealing to him the path by which souls descend and go back again.

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A Mithraeum found in the ruins of Ostia Antica , Italy
Mithraeum in Jajce renowned as one of the best preserved in-situ in Europe
How a modern history theme park imagines a Mithraeum: Museum Orientalis in the Netherlands
Finds from a Mithraeum in Stockstadt, Germany
A Mithraeum found in the German city of Saarbrücken
Polychrome reproduction of the Mithraic banquet scene featuring Mithras and the Sun god banqueting on the hide of the slaughtered bull, dating to 130 AD, Lobdengau-Museum, Ladenburg , Germany
Mithraeum in the lowest floor in the Basilica of San Clemente in Rome