A mitre is the tall, two-panelled ceremonial headdress worn by bishops and abbots during liturgical celebrations. In short, it is a sign of the bishop's office and authority, worn for the entrance, Gospel, homily and other solemn moments, and it comes in three grades: simple, precious and golden. See our mitres.
What does a mitre look like?
The mitre is formed of two stiff, pointed panels joined at the sides, with two ribbons (lappets) hanging at the back. It is made of fabric matching the liturgical colour or of white silk damask with embroidery. The interior often features a small pocket for the text of prayers.
What are the three types of mitre?
The simple mitre (mitra simplex) is white linen or silk with modest decoration, used on ordinary days and penitential seasons. The precious mitre (mitra pretiosa) is richly decorated with gold and gems and is used on the greatest solemnities. The golden mitre (mitra auriphrygiata) has gold embroidery and is used when the precious mitre is not required.
When does a bishop wear the mitre?
The bishop wears the mitre at the entrance procession, the Gospel, the homily, during certain blessings and at the end of Mass. He removes it for the Eucharistic Prayer and at moments of adoration or prayer, when he instead wears the biretta or nothing. The rules follow the General Instruction of the Roman Missal and the Caeremoniale Episcoporum.
How is a mitre made?
A quality mitre is made over a stiff inner frame, covered with fabric in the liturgical colour or white damask, and finished with gold or silk embroidery and the lappets. It should sit comfortably and match the chasuble and cope of the celebration. Browse our mitres.
FAQ
Do abbots wear mitres? Yes, mitred abbots are permitted to wear the mitre within their jurisdiction, by ancient privilege.
What is the mitre called in Latin? The mitre is known as the mitra, and the two side panels recall the flames of the Holy Spirit in some interpretations of its symbolism.
Conclusion
The mitre is a powerful sign of the bishop's office. Choose the right grade – simple, precious or golden – to match the solemnity. Browse our mitres, made to match your copes and chasubles.
Related reading
Pair your mitre knowledge with cope vs cloak and our guide to the biretta.
