The New Mithraeum Database

The name of the Mithraeum of the Seven Gates refers to the doors depicted in the mosaic that decorates the floor, symbolising the seven planets through which the souls of the initiates have to pass.

Between the 1st and 4th centuries, Mithraism developed throughout the Roman world. Much material exists, but textual evidence is scarce. The only ancient work that fills this gap is Porphyry’s intense and complex essay.

Twelve centuries separate the decline of Roman Mithraism from the dawn of Freemasonry. Twelve centuries during which the mysteries of Mithras have remained more secret than ever.

The ruins of the Mithraeum of Savaria are kept under a new plaza.

Large limestone stele with an inscription on three sides.

Small bronze figure (H. 0.11), which served as a handle of a patera (Zoega) or a knife (Lajard).

About the next two monuments, no further data are known (cf. MMM II 485 No. 78c, bis): 1) In Palazzo Barberini (Zoega, Abh., 148 No.8).

Fragment of limestone from Porêts, which was used in the 4th century.

The lion sculpture found near the entrance of the Mithraeum at Les Bolards is unique in its genre.

This monument representing Cautes with uncrossed legs was consecrated by a certain Anttiocus.

Remnants of a statue, found near the entrance.

Two small heads (H. 0.08-0.10) in Phrygian cap (Gallia, 308; 318 No. 41 and fig. 11), which seem to belong to a representation of Mithras tauroctone.

Small woman's head, crowned with flowers.

1) Small white marble column (H. 0.45 diam. 0.07), decorated in high-relief with a spiral-like twig with oak-leaves and acorns (Gallia, 318 No. 46 and fig. 10).

Fragments of a slab (Br. 0.33-0.44; originally 0.55).

Two fragments: basem.

Red and white granite marble disc (diam. 0.70) surrounded by rays (Gallia, 312; 320 No. 48 and fig. 16).

"Vauthier a recolte en outre un buste en marbre blanc, tres fin, de Venus, semble-t-il, une tete de divinite casquee, probablement Minerve, et plusieurs menus debris de petites tetes feminines tres mutiIees.

Three fragments which form together the word: [ma]gister (Gallia, 314 and 328 No. 16d).

"Au cours de sondages qu'il a opere au eimetiere sud-est, Vauthier a trouve l'extremite d'un flambeau tenu par une main, dans la pose exacte des dadophores, et une main tenant entre Ie pouce et l'index une petite offrande (fruit ?…