Mithra, known as Mithras to the Romans, was originally a Persian god of the sun. At the beginning of time Mithras had sacrificed the mythical great bull from the body of which flowed the blood which gave life to earth. With the Romans Mithras became the god of kings, justice and contracts. He is a deity particularly favoured by soldiers, who were bound in loyalty to their rulers and is often described as the soldier god.

Temples of Mithras are sunk below ground and windowless, representing the cave to which Mithras carried and then killed the bull. They are commonly located close to springs or streams as fresh water is required for some Mithraic rituals, and a basin is often incorporated into the structure.

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