Mithraic Mysteries

The Mithraic mysteries, a Roman mystery cult of the god Mithras, were popular in the imperial army from the first to the fourth century. Initiates called themselves syndexioi, 'united by the handshake', and shared communal meals.

The central image of their temples showed Mithras slaying a bull. Centred on Rome, the cult reached Britain and Dacia. Christians persecuted it in the fourth century, and it was suppressed within the Empire by that century's end.