Mouth of Truth
Attraction
4.3 (20205 reviews)
Carving of man's face on ancient manhole cover, a popular attraction due to the myth attached to it.
Piazza della Bocca della Verità, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
+39 06 678 7759
Did You Know?
Its Italian Name
The Mouth of Truth is known in Italian as 'Bocca della Verità'.
Possible Origin
It is believed that the marble mask is part of an ancient Roman fountain or possibly a drain cover depicting the face of a river god, perhaps Oceanus.
The Legend
Legend says that if you place your hand in the mouth and tell a lie, it will be bitten off.
Location
The Mouth of Truth is located in the portico of the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, Rome.
Highlights from Reviews
• helpful staff
The staff is helpful and often assists visitors by taking photos, which helps to keep the line moving quickly.
• free admission
Visiting the Mouth of Truth is free, although donations are appreciated to help with upkeep.
• fast-moving line
The line moves quickly, so wait times are generally short despite the popularity of the attraction.
• adjacent church
The adjacent Santa Maria in Cosmedin church offers additional historical and artistic value to the visit.
• movie fame
The site gained fame from the movie Roman Holiday, making it a must-see for fans of the film.
