The Mouth of Truth (La Bocca della Verità) is a huge stone face most famous for being a lie detector!
Starting from the Middle Ages, it was believed that if one told a lie with his hand in the mouth of the sculpture, it would be bitten off.
There are many theories on what the structure was including a drain cover; part of an ancient Roman fountain; and the cover of a sacred well, amongst others.
The sculpture was placed in the portico of the Church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin in the 17th century.
The Mouth of Truth is also well known from its appearance in the 1953 film 'Roman Holiday', when it is used by Hepburn's and Peck's characters to tell the truth after initially not being truthful with each other.
It is very popular with tourists who like to have their photo taken with their hand in the mouth! If there is a queue, and you do not wish to put your hand in the structure, or the Church is closed, you can still have a glimpse of The Mouth of Truth by looking through the railings outside.
Also, do visit the picturesque 6th century church.
Times & Prices
10:00 - 17:00
FREE
Location
Piazza Bocca Della Verita
How to Get There
Metro Blue B Line: Circo Massimo
(then 5 - 10 minute walk down Via Dei Cerchi or Via Del Circo Massimo)
 | | Church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin |
 | | Interior of Santa Maria in Cosmedin |
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