This small copper alloy
medallion shows Mithras. It was found on a Roman Villa site in
North Bedfordshire, and is probably about 1800 years old. It may
have been part of a “Mithraeum” (a temple dedicated to Mithras). Mithras was a Persian
God who came to earth to hunt and kill the divine bull. By spilling the
blood of the bull, Mithras let free a life giving force which helped good
conquer evil.
Roman soldiers were
particularly fond of Mithras as they could identify with his martial
prowess.
Today we can still find
echoes of the story of Mithras in the shape of Wild West Rodeos, or in the
ritual of bullfights.
1. Mithras medallion,
wearing cloak and light radiating from his head.
2. Spanish Matador
3. Sculpture from a Mithraeum showing Mithras slaying the bull.