Problem statement: The numerous Mithraic temples in the commercial-military port of Ostia-Rome indicate the significance of this religion and its rituals among soldiers and merchants. According to evidence, the Mithraic faith was transferred from this location to Rome.
Research objective: This study reports a field visit to the multiple Mithraea of Ostia and emphasizes the importance of this cult in ancient Rome. All the Mithraic temples in Ostia are introduced collectively in this study. The remains and evidence of Mithraism are widespread throughout the Roman Empire, particularly in Italy and other European countries such as Germany, Belgium, Eastern Europe (including Romania), Ireland, and London, as well as in Asia and Africa. Some of these temples are open to the public, with the most well-preserved being the Mithraeum of San Clemente in Rome. However, most Mithraic temples in Italy are abandoned and inaccessible. If the Mithraea of the ancient city of Ostia are documented and introduced, a significant part of Mithraic culture and art in the West will be revealed.
Research method: This study employed a combination of library-based and field research, with a comparative analysis of field observations and previous scholarly studies.
Conclusion: The field visit and its comparison with library sources yielded new and significant findings. The presence of extensive military installations near this city, along with the presence of soldiers and merchants, highlights the importance of Mithras as the deity of warriors and the protector of sacred oaths and true covenants.