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Archaeological site · Mérida, Extremadura
Casa del Mitreo
Luxury Roman house from the late 1st century, with courtyards, wall paintings and the cosmic mosaic, which represents the universe with figures of the elements, the winds and the seasons.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Casa del Mitreo
The Casa del Mitreo is a large Roman domus built at the end of the 1st century AD near the Plaza de Toros, outside the theatre area. The name comes from the discovery nearby of sculptures linked to the cult of the god Mithras, but the house was a private residence of a wealthy family of Augusta Emerita.
The house was organised around three courtyards, with reception rooms, bedrooms, a kitchen and private baths. Remains of wall paintings and mosaic floors can still be seen in several rooms.
The best-known mosaic is the cosmic mosaic, from the 2nd century, an allegorical representation of the universe: figures such as Eternity, the Sky, Chaos, the winds, the rivers, the sea and the seasons are identified by Latin inscriptions, in colours that remain vivid.
A modern roof protects the ruins, and walkways allow viewing the mosaics from above. Beside it is an area of Roman tombs, the columbaria.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
In the morning or early afternoon, with light coming through the shelter. Check the opening hours.
How to get there
It is next to the Plaza de Toros, in the south of the city, about 1 km from the Plaza de España, roughly a 15-minute walk.
Tip
Go straight to the cosmic mosaic and read the inscriptions that identify each figure. Also visit the columbaria beside it, included on the same combined ticket.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Casa del Mitreo
What is the cosmic mosaic?
A 2nd-century mosaic that depicts the universe with figures such as Eternity, the Sky, the winds, the rivers, and the seasons.
Was the Casa del Mitreo a temple?
No. It was a private luxury house; the name comes from sculptures of the cult of Mithras found nearby.
Is the Casa del Mitreo near the theater?
Not very: it is in the southern part of the city, about a 15-minute walk from the center.