Mouth of Truth - Free Audio Guide

Rome, Lazio, Italy

Bocca della Verità, Piazza della Bocca della Verità, Ripa, Municipio Roma I, Roma, Roma Capitale, Lazio, 00153, Italia

Mouth of Truth, Rome
gnuckx, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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The Bocca della Verità, or 'Mouth of Truth', is an ancient marble mask located in the Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin in Rome. Dating back to the Roman era, it was originally a drain cover. The mask features a bearded face and has been associated with various legends, including its supposed ability to reveal truthfulness. The site gained fame in the medieval period as a test for marital fidelity. Visitors can see this iconic sculpture, made of pavonazzetto marble, which has become a symbol of Rome's rich history. It is accessible to the public, and there is no admission fee. The Basilica is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.