Monumentum
Mithraeum of St. Egyden
The 'Mithraic cave' in the Gradische/Gradišče massif near St. Egidio contained vessels decorated with snakes and the remains of chicken bones and other animals that were consumed during Mithraic ceremonies.
PublishedMithraeum.eu
21 Aug 2021
Updated on 16 Jan 2022
Austrian Archaeological Institute
Gleirscher, LM f. Kärnten
Gradišče cult vessel with snake representations
Landesmuseum Kärnten/P. Gleirscher
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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.
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.
Data
- Location
NoricumSt. Egyden (Austria) - Latitude and longitude 14.06922,46.57631
- Type
- Discovery date 2011
- Canonical URI
mithraeum.eu/monument/339