Mithraeum of St. Egyden

TNMM 339

Typical vessels with snake decorations in caves usually indicate a connection with the Mithraic mysteries. The majority of the numerous pottery and animal bones accumulated as a result of reoccurring cult feasts in the cave and thus reflect the eating habits and the selection of animals for the practice of the cult.

The remains of animals studied to date confirm that the animals typical for cult feasts are represented. There are numerous poultry bones among the material. Many are from chickens but wild birds have also been accounted for. Remains of very young sheep, goats, and pigs in the find spectrum are also typical indicators for their consumption in connection with the Mithraic mysteries. Alongside these finds there are also faunal elements that became part of the deposits through natural events and are not connected with the cult.

Bringing all the archaeological finds together, it is most proable that the god Mithras was continously worshiped in this cave.