German archaeologists recently discovered a temple dedicated to the god Mithras during excavations in the old town of Regensburg.
Since the building was originally built of wood, only a few structural remains survive. However, finds such as an inscribed votive stone and fragments of a metal votive plate clearly indicate that it was used as a place of worship.
Further evidence of the still mysterious Mithraic cult includes fragments of ceramic vessels decorated with snakes, incense cups and jars with handles. Experts believe that ritual banquets were an integral part of Mithraic worship.
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Coins, including those from the reign of Emperor Hadrian (117-138 AD), date the temple to between 80 and 171 AD. This makes it the oldest of the nine mithraeites known to date in the Roman province of Rhaedia (in what is now Bavaria).
Rhaedia was a Roman province in Central Europe that existed from approximately the 1st century BC to the 5th century AD, covering parts of what is now southern Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and northern Italy.
Mithraism or Mithraism was a mystery religion. It was especially prevalent in military and commercial centers, and Roman legions were often among its followers. Only men are allowed inside. The local community usually consists of approximately 15 to 40 members.
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In ancient Persia, Mithras was known as “Mitra,” the god of covenant, loyalty, and justice. The Romans transformed him into a sun god. Roman Mithraic cult absorbed many elements from Persian mythology, but also developed its own basic rituals and symbols. The theme of “tauroctony” (from Latin Taurus, bull) becomes central: Mithras kills the bull as an act of cosmic renewal.
The Romans had a graded system of initiation, and we know that there were seven levels: Corax (Raven), Nymphus (Groom), Miles (Soldier), Leo (Lion), Perses (Persian), Heliodromus (Sunwalker), and Pater (Father), each with its own symbols, rituals, and possible tests or trials.
As Christianity spread, secret cults disappeared.
Only now is the significance of this discovery becoming clear
The discoveries were made during the preparation stages of a construction project. In a historic city like Regensburg, archaeologists have to be brought in before new buildings can be erected. Experts actually made the discovery back in 2023, but it’s only now, after in-depth investigation, that its full significance has become clear.
Like other Mithraic temples, the roughly seven-meter-long wooden structure was designed as an elongated building that was partially sunk into the ground. Followers of this mysterious cult may have entered the sanctuary via a ramp.
An inscribed wishing stone fragment; the text can no longer be deciphered. – Image source: Regensburg City Museum
There is a trench-like depression in the middle with high platforms on both sides for believers to sit and lie down. Stefan Reuter, who analyzed the finds, explained to Bavarian public broadcaster B that the design of Mithras was modeled on the cave, since one of the central themes of the myth is the god Mithras killing a bull in the cave.
The temple was once illuminated with candles and oil lamps. Ceramic vessels and stemmed pots have been found indicating the existence of extensive ritual feasting. Analysis of the food containers is still ongoing. To be sure, people are consuming high-quality food.
Excavated artifacts from the temple will be on display at the Regensburg Historical Museum, which is currently redesigning its Roman gallery. In the new exhibition, the Mithras Temple will play an important role.