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Mouth of Truth

Address

Address: Piazza della Bocca della Verità, 18
Zone: Rione Ripa (Circo Massimo-Bocca Verità-Aventino) (Roma centro)

Contacts

Opening times

It follows the opening times of the Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin
At the present time daily from 9:30 to 17.50

Schedules are subject to change. It is suggested to check by contacting the church (06 6787759) or check the Basilica's official website

Agreement with

What the agreement provides:

The entrance at the Bocca della Verità is free.
It is possible to offer a free offer.
In the case of guided and organised tours, the date and time can be agreed by e-mail at the following address: rettore@cosmedin.org

Description

Marble mask which stands against the left wall of the portico of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church, at the Piazza della Bocca della Verità, the site of the ancient Forum Boarium. It attracts visitors who audaciously stick their hand in the mouth.
The massive marble mask weighs about 1300 kg and probably depicts the face of the sea titan god Oceanus. The eyes, nostrils and mouth are open. Historians aren't quite certain what the original purpose of the disc was. It was possibly used as a drain cover in the nearby Temple of Hercules Victor, which had an oculus—a round open space in the middle of the roof, similar to that of the Pantheon. In the 13th century the disc was probably removed from the temple and placed against the wall of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin. In the 17th century it eventually moved to its current location inside the portico of the church.

See also

Culture and leisure › Historic places of worship › Catholic Churches
Culture and leisure › Cultural heritage › Architectural and historical heritage
Last checked: 2022-09-06 10:24