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This is my latest MOC based around life on Hadrian's Wall that I'd like to share with you. Evidence for the worship of the Roman god Mithras begins to appear in the 1st century AD and disappears sometime in the 4th century. The cult of worshiping Mithras is usually thought to be of Persian origin, however since no ancient source preserves the god’s mythology, such an assumption should be treated with caution. Whatever its origins, from at least the 3rd century the cult became popular among members of the military stationed in Britain and as such temples were erected in the forts along Hadrian’s Wall, with a particularly well preserved example being located at Carrawburgh. All temples featured a representation, be it in relief, statue or fresco, of Mithras killing a bull. This is known today as a "tauroctony", and appears in the same format everywhere, though minor variations do exist. While most temples were built underground, representing the cave in which Mithras slew the bull, this was not possible on Hadrian’s Wall. Temples were therefore constructed in a way that mimicked caves, usually only being lit by torchlight and small openings in the roof. This MOC is roughly based on the temple at Carrawburgh, although I have opted for a far grander tauroctony than was actually present at the site. This is not to take anything from the archaeological remains at Carrawburgh, which still possesses three fine shrines dating from the 3rd century and is well worth visiting. This MOC is my first attempt at an interior of a building, my first go at creating mosaics and my first use of lighting as part of the MOC itself – so incorporating all of these meant it took me a bit longer to build than expected! I also wanted to create a temple that didn’t conform to the classic Greco-Roman style; I feel there are enough really good Lego examples of these already in circulation. Many thanks for viewing and C&C is more than welcome.
