Mithraism in Ancient Rome
While conducting research for my World War 2 novel Bridge of Sighs and Dreams, I wanted to incorporate some of the ancient underground caverns used by the Resistance to smuggle Italian Jews out of Rome in order to avoid Nazi arrests. The caverns that most interested me were those created by the Worshippers of Mithras.
Bridge of Sighs and Dreams
Recently, noted historical novelist, Cynthia Ripley Miller, invited me to post a brief essay on this ancient Roman religion of Mithraism. Here is a link to the article and to other fascinating articles on ancient Rome and writing historical fiction.
http://www.cynthiaripleymiller.com/mithraism-in-ancient-rome-a-soldiers-religion/
Pamela Allegretto Artist/Author 
Very interesting! I believe one of the ‘layers’ below San Clemente in Roma is a Mithraic temple, but I can’t remember for sure. Odd that they excluded women completely. Did they think there would be women in the afterlife? Hmmm. Ciao, Cristina
Grazie. Yes, it is fascinating. You are absolutely right. San Clemente is one of the best preserved Mithraeum in the world. here is an interesting link that further explains it. https://www.walksinsiderome.com/en/blog/about-rome/basilica-of-san-clemente.html
Wonderful!
Thank you so much for visiting my website. I’m happy that you enjoyed the post, and I thank you for taking the time to comment. Best wishes, Pamela