Duino Mithraeum, Roman temple cave in Duino-Aurisina, Italy.
The Duino Mithraeum is a Roman temple carved into a natural cave with stone benches, a limestone altar, and wall reliefs showing religious imagery. The rocky chamber preserves the original sanctuary setup almost as it was left by ancient worshippers.
This sanctuary was built in the first century BC for Roman soldiers stationed near ancient Tergeste. The worshippers continued their secret rites until Christianity gradually ended Mithraic practice in the region.
The limestone altar and wall carvings show Mithras slaying a bull, a sacred moment that held deep meaning for those who worshipped here.
Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven rock surfaces when visiting this cave temple. The entrance is somewhat hidden in the landscape, so checking local information beforehand helps you find it easily.
Archaeologists discovered around 400 ancient coins, numerous oil lamps, and votive altars left inside this cave. These objects show how actively and regularly worshippers came to this remote sanctuary.
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