Mithraism under the microscope: new revelations about rituals through micromorphology, histotaphonomy and zooarchaeology

Abstract This paper is the first to use an innovative multi-proxy approach obtain insights into hitherto unknown Mithraic cult practices. Using soil micromorphology, zooarchaeology and histotaphonomy, we investigated two mithraea (Biesheim FR, Kempraten CH) one cave (Zillis CH). was also study include micromorphological histotaphonomic approaches within context of research. The systematic evaluation thermal alteration bioerosion (in particular bacterial attack) on animal bones, in combination with zooarchaeological results, allows a differentiation between various (cult) practices involving animals. Thanks investigations, it possible demonstrate that repeatedly spreading combustion residues renewing floor were important parts Mithraism. Our results suggest practice consisting several stages carried out all three sites. highlights multiple constructions as well related sediments (micro-) artefacts cultic indoor features are sources information.