Mouth of Truth

Overview

The Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità) is a massive, incredibly famous ancient marble mask mounted in the portico of the beautiful medieval church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. It is the absolute centerpiece of one of Rome's most enduring and beloved legends.

Highlights

• The Legend: According to ancient lore, if you place your hand inside the carving's dark mouth and tell a lie, the stone jaws will instantly slam shut and bite your hand entirely off.
• The Mask: It is a massive, highly detailed disc depicting a bearded, roaring pagan sea god (likely Oceanus), originally used in ancient times strictly as a massive drain cover for the nearby Temple of Hercules.
• The Church: Do not miss the intensely atmospheric, dark, 8th-century church itself, featuring a stunning Cosmatesque mosaic floor and the flower-crowned skull of Saint Valentine in a side altar.

History

The massive drain cover was moved out of the ruins and placed against the church wall in the 17th century. The legend of its lie-detecting abilities peaked in global popularity after it was heavily featured in the iconic 1953 film Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck.

Visitor Tips

• The Queue: Because absolutely everyone wants the iconic photo with their hand in the mouth, expect to wait in a very slow-moving line running down the street outside. You only get about 30 seconds for the photo once you reach the front.
• Timing: Arrive right when it opens early in the morning to beat the massive tour bus crowds.