“The Mouth of Truth”
Bocca della Verità
Why locals love it
The fascinating thing about this sculpture is the legend behind it: the mouth bites off the hand of anyone not telling the truth. It doesn’t matter if you’re superstitious or religious – it’s something to try at least once.
Why you should visit it
Even though it’s small, the Bocca della Verità is one of Rome’s major attractions. It’s a circular marble sculpture of a large face with an open mouth. Hundreds of visitors line up each day for the chance to put a hand in its mouth. You’ll find it just outside the entrance of Basilica di Saint Maria in Cosmedin – another church worthy of a visit.
Special tip
Note that there’s always a long line and that you’ll only have a couple of seconds to take photos.
Bocca della Verità
Via della Greca, 4Mon-Su: 10:00-18:00