The Temple of Mithras is one of the few remnants leftover from the Roman Empire’s time in the area and is one of the oldest buildings ever discovered in London. The temple, also called the London Mithraeum was built around 240 CE and was dedicated to the Roman god of mystery, Mithras. Later in the early fourth century, the temple was rededicated to Bacchus.
The London Mithraeum was uncovered in 1954 during construction of a building near the Walbrook river. After its discovery, the temple was excavated W.F. Grimes, the director of the Museum of London at the Time. Grimes and his team uncovered several rare artifacts, including marble statues of Roman gods such as Minerva and Mercury, as well as over 400 wooden writing tablets – among the tablets is the oldest financial document from London and earliest mention of London (Londinium) by name in a written document.
