Altar of Secundinus from Bad Ischl

TNMM 749 ↔ CIMRM 1407

This altar dedicated to the god Mithras was discovered in Bad Ischl, Austria, which was part of the ancient Roman province of Noricum. It bears an inscription that sheds light on the religious and administrative practices of the Roman Empire, particularly in its frontier regions. The inscription reads: "D(eo) I(nvicto) M(ithrae) / Secun/dinus Aug(usti) n(ostri) v/il(icus) sta/t(ionis) Esc(ensis) vo/t(um) ret(tulit) l(ibens) l(aetus) m(erito)", which translates to: "To the unconquered god Mithras, Secundinus, the steward of our emperor’s estate at the station of Esca, willingly, joyfully and deservedly fulfilled his vow".

The mention of "Secundinus" as "vilicus" (steward or manager) of the "stationis Escensis" (customs station at Esca) suggests a mixture of religious devotion and administrative duty. Secundinus was probably responsible for managing a customs station, an important role in overseeing trade, especially salt trade, in the area. This dual role of administrative and religious duties is emblematic of Roman provincial government, where local administrators often engaged in religious practices, intertwining civic and spiritual life.

The location of this altar in Bad Ischl, referred to in the inscription as "Esca", also reveals the historical significance of the site. The area, known for its salt production, was an important point in the Roman trade network. The linguistic analysis of the name "Esca", possibly derived from a Celtic root related to water, indicates the pre-Roman cultural influences in the area.