These are texts or phrases that can be read from left to right or from right to left. Here are some examples:

In girum imus nocte et consumimur igni

(We go about in the night and are consumed by fire.)

Called ‘the verse of the devil’ they said that the devil himself taught a seminarian it during the Middle Ages.

Roma tibi subito motibus ibit amor

(In Rome quickly with its bustle you will find love)

Sentence by Quintilian, roman grammarian and orator.

 

Signa te, signa, temere me tangis et angis

(Cross yourself, cross yourself, recklessly you touch me and you torment)

According to legend the devil said this phrase to San Martin when he was going to Rome.

 

Ablata at alba

(Secluded but pure)

 

Subi dura a rudibus

(endure rough treatment from uncultured brutes)

 

Sator Arepo tenet opera rotas

(The sower Arepo holds the wheels with effort)

 

Si Nummi immunis

(Give me my fee, and I warrant you free)

 

Si bene te tua laus taxat, sua laute tenebis

(If your praise rates you well, you’ll maintain its affairs splendidly)

 

Sole medere, pede ede perede melos

(Heal with the sun, get appetite by walking/hiking and publish your works)

 

Roma tibi subito motibus ibit amor

(Rome, love will come to you suddenly, with violence)