TRIP The Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità) is a 1.3 tonne marble mask located within the portico of the Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin in Rome. The Mouth of Truth is one of Rome’s quirkier attractions, and is one of the Italian capital’s best photo ops.
TAP The original purpose of The Mouth of Truth is debated by historians; some believing it once served as a drain cover at the nearby Temple of Hercules Victor, whilst others believing it was once used in sacrificial offerings to the god Hercules. During Medieval times The Mouth of Truth was used to determine if someone was telling the truth – those who lied had their hand bitten off!
Most of The Mouth of Truth’s modern popularity can be attributed to its appearance in the 1953 film Roman Holiday staring Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn. Visitors today visit The Mouth of Truth to recreate the famous scene and have their photo taken with their hand inside the Bocca della Verità’s mouth.
GO Visiting The Mouth of Truth is free; however some sources indicate a fee is charged during busier periods. Visitors can access The Mouth of Truth from 9:00am – 1:00pm & 2:30pm – 6:00pm daily. The Mouth of Truth is easily accessible via the Rome Metro network (Circo Massimo station). Head over to Rome Metro’s official website for timetables, route maps and other useful information.
