Sanctuary of Isis and Mater Magna
Heiligtum der Isis und Mater Magna
Roman temple ruins beneath a shopping center, where light and sound displays recreate the worship of eastern goddesses in 1st-century Mainz.
During construction of the Römerpassage shopping arcade in 1999, a 1st-century AD sanctuary to Isis and Mater Magna (Cybele) was discovered underground, yielding many offerings, oil lamps and lead curse tablets. The remains are preserved in situ within the “Taberna archaeologica” exhibition space beneath the shopping arcade, where light projections and sound effects recreate the rituals. It is modest in size but distinctive. Admission is free, and the entrance is inside the Römerpassage. It suits visitors interested in Roman history and takes about 30 minutes.
Opening hours
Mon–Sat about 10:00–18:00, closed Sundays
Nearby sights
- Landesmuseum Mainz
- Schillerplatz & Carnival Fountain
- Natural History Museum Mainz
- Mainz Carnival Museum
- St. Peter's Church, Mainz
- St. Stephan's Church (Chagall Windows)
- Electoral Palace, Mainz
- Mainz Marktplatz & Weekly Market