La Bocca della Verità is an image, carved from Pavonazzo marble, of a man-like face, located in theportico of the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin in Rome, Italy. The sculpture is thought to be part of a first century ancient Romanfountain, or perhaps a manhole cover, portraying one of several possible pagan gods, probably Oceanus. Most Romans believe that the 'Bocca' represents the ancient god of the river Tiber.
The most famous characteristic of the Mouth, however, is its role as a lie detector. Starting from the Middle Ages, it was believed that if one told a lie with one's hand in the mouth of the sculpture, it would be bitten off. The piece was placed in the portico of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin in the 17th century. This church is also home to the supposed relics of Saint Valentine.
bocca della verità means "truth mouth" it's only a murble face, but you risk your hand!! :-) to be honest i like this place only because of the surroundings.. if there is too much queue dont worry, walk around and you will be satisfied enough!
