Mainz, Germany: Sanctuary of Isis and Magna Mater

While we were resting in the hotel, my husband was Googling spots to see here. He found 2 museums that we could visit before doing any sightseeing or shopping.

The Sanctuary of Isis and Magna Mater is a volunteer-run museum. The temple was dedicated to Egyptian goddess Isis and Roman goddess Magna Mater or Cybele. It was founded in the first century and remained active until the 3rd century. The ruins were discovered in late 1999 (although the volunteer guide said in the year 2000) during the construction of shopping arcade and was named Römerpassage located in the city center and also walking distance from our hotel.

The temple ruins were preserved in situ and the artifacts were plentiful and quite interesting. What boggles me the most is the idea that as late as the year 2000 there are still ruins that are getting discovered. Amazing!

The guide led us to the downstairs room where we saw the foundation of the sanctuary, consecration and sacrificial offerings, escape tablets and many preserved items.

We spent a minimum of an hour getting educated about all the artifacts they have discovered in the temple, although the temple alone was not that large. Or the temple must not have been excavated in its entirety. I don’t know and I forgot to ask. There was a point that I was getting bored, even though the tour was truly fascinating. I just wasn’t in the mood to accept all this information. I think it's because we had been traveling for hours and had very little sleep. Plus, my focus was to see the beautiful half-timber buildings that this region is famous for. Free entry, donations are accepted.

When we first entered the shopping center, we couldn't find the museum. We looked and looked and eventually I asked one of the shopkeeper where we could find the museum. She pointed this which is actually across from her shop. We saw it when we entered and I thought it was a home decor shop.

On the way to the next museum. The sky was gray the whole afternoon, very chilly at 45-48F for these Californians.

We needed coffee and Danish before walking to the next museum.

To be continued.....