Mitre

What is a Mitre? The Mitre is a religious head covering worn by many ecclesiastical dignitaries. It comprises two connected pointed shields at the forehead and nape, with a soft inner lining. Adorned with two shoulder-length ribbons attached at the back, the magnificent cap symbolises the Old and New Testaments.

Today, the Mitre is primarily worn by bishops, including the Pope, and some abbots during the performance of their duties. Formerly a symbol of Arab princes, it was likely adopted by bishops in the 11th century and has since become part of the vestments in many Christian churches. The Greek origin (Gr. mitra = forehead band) indicates that the Mitre originally could have been just a forehead band and, even today, is rather simply designed.

Another interesting fact is that a simple folding technique of napkins is also called a Bishop's Mitre because its shape resembles that of a Mitre.