Mouth of Truth (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Mouth of Truth?
What makes it 81% Couple-Friendly: Couples queue for the playful photo, whisper vows by the relic of St Valentine, and stroll the ancient square afterward; crowds and little shade are the only real drawbacks.
Positives:
- Iconic Movie Connection: Featured in “Roman Holiday,” it adds a classic film moment to your Rome itinerary.
- Unique Photo Opportunity: The mask’s legend makes for playful, interactive photos you can only get here.
Challenges:
- Long Queues: Peak hours see waits over 20 minutes; hold a light snack to stay comfortable.
- Payment Only in Cash: The €2 fee is cash-only; plan ahead to avoid missing the photo moment.
What is Mouth of Truth?
- A circular 1st-century marble disc carved with a bearded visage, originally functioning as a drain cover in ancient Rome
- Embedded in the portico wall of the 6th-century church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, blending classical relief sculpture with medieval ecclesiastical architecture
- Dubbed the Bocca della Verità for its gaping mouth, the mask acquired a reputation as an early lie-detection talisman
What is so special about Mouth of Truth for couple trip?
- Snap playful hand-in-mouth photos of your partner
- Enjoy a romantic stroll around an ancient Roman square
- Discover Byzantine mosaics and medieval church columns free of charge
- Connect with “Roman Holiday” movie history
- Manage time and cash for smooth visit
Recommended visit duration: 0.5-1 hour
Why 0.5-1 hour visit duration is ideal for couple trip: This time lets you take photos, explore the church interior and stroll the piazza without rush.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Mouth of Truth
Hand-in-mouth photo challenge:
Place your hand in the Mouth of Truth and let your partner snap a fun shot.
Tip: Pay €2 per person at the portico entrance to step close to the mask.
Romantic piazza stroll:
Walk around Piazza Bocca della Verità to see the Temple of Hercules Victor and the Fountain of the Tritons.
Tip: Circle the square counterclockwise for better photo angles and avoid crowds near the mask.
Explore Santa Maria in Cosmedin:
Step inside the 6th-century church to see Byzantine mosaics and medieval columns.
Tip: Enter through the portico; donations are welcome but entry is free.
When is the best time to visit Mouth of Truth (Rome, Italy)?
Visit early in spring or late autumn for mild weather and shorter lines. Summer afternoons bring long queues.
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Reviews of Mouth of Truth (Rome)
Steven J
Wheelchair access via a gate right by the mouth of truth. A helpful member of staff opened it for us. Step to get in which was somewhat challenging. Church attached was nice for a quick visit.
Patrick Annunziata
Anyone that has seen Roman Holiday has visited the "Mouth of Truth" when in Rome. Fun and a great diversion.
S. G.
Nice small tourist location with "la bocca della verità", a small, beautiful church and gift shop. I had to wait for about 15 minutes to get to the mouth. The security there was very helpful and made sure that everyone had a moment to take photos and then move along. It's a lovely place worth the short wait!
Yecheng Shen
We recently visited the Mouth of Truth in Rome. Be prepared for a very long queue! We also found that its location is quite a distance from other major attractions. If you're on a tight schedule or have limited time for sightseeing in Rome, you might consider skipping this one. While it's an iconic spot, the time spent queuing and traveling to and from it might not be worth it if your time is prec...
Ansley Durden
A long line but it goes fast. You give someone your phone and they take like 20 pictures of you very fast.
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Mouth of Truth entry fee (2 adults) | EUR 4 |
| Coffee at nearby café | EUR 6 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 10 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Mouth of Truth
- Arrive Early: Get there by 9:30 AM to skip lines and enjoy the piazza in quiet light.
- Use Audio Guide: Download a free app before your visit for historical context as you walk.
Map of Mouth of Truth
Address: Piazza della Bocca della Verità, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
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About Mouth of Truth
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+39 06 678 775910 BEST nearby Activities
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