Ruins of Mithraic Temples in Turkey
Mithraism emerged as a notable cult before the rise of Christianity within the Roman Empire, shrouded in mystery due to a lack of written records, secretive practices within subterranean temples, and its eventual disappearance. In Anatolia, a pivotal region under Roman influence, several remnants tied to this enigmatic belief have been unveiled. This article aims to shed light on the Mithraic remains discovered in Turkey, a captivating aspect of religious history. Before delving into these findings, let’s explore some essential details about Mithraism.
The Enigmatic Faith of Ancient Rome
Mithraism, identified as one of Rome’s pagan religions, is likely rooted in the Persian deity Mithra, which has connections to Hindu beliefs. The name “Mithra” signifies “unification” or “mediation” and is often illustrated alongside figures like Helios and Sol, emphasizing its links to the sun and light—a reflection of sun worship traditions. Membership in the cult required completion of 12 trials, akin to practices in similar organizations. Its teachings concerning an afterlife helped propel the religion’s growth. The cult’s origin revolves around a scene depicting Mithra’s bull-slaying, although this narrative remains a topic of debate. Given its secretive nature and absence of documented sources, Mithraism is primarily understood through subterranean temples or caves. Let’s examine the Mithraic temple remains discovered across Turkey.
Doliche Ancient City
Situated roughly 10 kilometers northwest of Gaziantep, Doliche is an ancient city where two Mithraeums (cult chambers) were unearthed within a cave. These chambers stand out among the city’s archaeological treasures, designed as expansive squares. One chamber features a relief portraying Mithra in the act of slaying a bull, notably altered with the figure’s head replaced by a cross, suggesting it was defaced by Christians.
Perge Ancient City
In the vicinity of the Perge Ancient City, located 18 kilometers east of Antalya, archaeologists excavated a Mithraeum that includes a marble votive stele portraying the classic bull-slaying scene. This cult chamber, likely fashioned by carving into a rock face, boasts a vaulted entrance. A 2nd-century AD inscription on the votive stele reveals that “Marcus Lucius Crispus graciously offered a sacrifice to Helios Mithras along with his children for the benefit of the council and public assembly of Perge.”
Arykanda Ancient City
Arykanda, located within the Antalya province in the Lycian region, is home to a Mithraic temple situated on its acropolis, comprised of two rectangular rooms. An inscription on the temple’s architrave suggests that it was dedicated to the Roman Emperor Septimus Severus and his lineage. Unlike many other Mithraic sites, this temple is not hidden underground, implying that it possibly did not require concealment under Septimus Severus, who permitted the practice of Mithraism.
Zerzevan Fortress
Enclosed within the Diyarbakır province, the Zerzevan Fortress houses the vestiges of a subterranean Mithraic temple dating back to Roman times. This temple, intricately carved into the rock, contains columns, niches, a beam motif on the eastern wall, and a niche featuring a carved water basin linked to a wall through a channel. Additionally, four symmetrically arranged spots on the ceiling were likely designated for animal sacrifice rituals.
