Learn about the history of trade and business in the Roman Empire by exploring the multi-level structure's 150 shops and offices
Tour the Imperial Forum Museum to see some magnificent amphorae and old sculptures that stretch back thousands of years
See an incredible multimedia video to immerse yourself in the intriguing progression of the city from the Roman Empire
Visit the Trajan's Market, an archaeological site, which served as the city's commercial hub throughout the Roman Imperial Age
Activity Location: Via Quattro Novembre, 94, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
Activity Timing: 09:30 AM - 07:30 PM
Activity Duration: 2 Hours
About Trajan's Market:
Trajan’s Market is an iconic multi-level brick building located in Rome and famous for being the first shopping mall in the world. The building was built between 100 to 112 AD by architect Appollodorus of Damascus and commissioned by Emperor Trajan. The semicircular structure is built on the Quirinal Hill and it was more than just a shopping complex of those times. The Trajan’s Market also held administrative offices and on the ground levels there may have been a courthouse as well. Previously, the Great Hall also served as an entertainment venue as well as a trading hub
About Trajan's Market Tickets:
How to Reach?
Trajan’s Market is a spectacular semicircular complex comprising over 150 shops and administrative offices that dates back to 100 to 112 AD. The complex is located near the Colosseum and although it is in ruins it still showcases its historical significance. The complex tells the story of how the Romans shopped and ran their offices. Trajan’s Market is a multi level structure with offices in the upper floors and the lower levels had shops selling local produce and other items.
Trajan’s Market is located on Via dei Fori Imperiali in Rome which is close to the Colosseum. It was built on the slopes of the Quirinal which is one of the famous seven hills of Rome. With your Trajan’s Market tickets you can enter the colossal market area and also explore the Imperial Forum Museum which is inside the complex.
According to research done over the years, Trajan’s Market was built around 100 to 112 AD by Appollodorus of Damascus. He was one of the most trusted architects of Rome at the time. The Market was part of the larger Forum Complex which was commissioned by Emperor Trajan to commemorate his victory in the battle against the Dacia king. The structure is counted as one of the first shopping malls in the world and features over 150 shops and administrative offices.
The Trajan’s Market Rome was commissioned by Emperor Trajan as a celebratory gesture for his victory in a battle against ancient Dacia. The Market is part of the larger Forum Complex and it was entrusted in the hands of one of the most celebrated architects of the time, Appollodorus of Damascus.
According to recent research, the market was more than just a marketplace and it served more as a multifunctional government administrative building. There is a possibility that the building also held a courthouse as well as many important public archives. The buildings were predominantly meant for commercial purposes and one of the alcoves on the ground level has been restored in order to display how it would have looked then.
Trajan’s Market Rome comprised five floors and the shops sold horticulture products, local spices as well as those brought in from other regions, oil, wine, grains and other produce. The Market gave space for merchants and traders from around the nation to sell their wares here and these shops were known as Tabernae in those days.
Trajan’s Market is one of the finest examples of Imperial Roman architecture and it was primarily designed and executed by Syrian architect Appollodorus of Damascus. This impressive semi-circular brick structure is set into the Quirinal hill with terraces that ascend the slopes. The upper levels consist of a two storey market hall and the semi-circular brick facade has detailed arches, lintels and pediments.
Today the Trajan’s Market is mostly in ruins even after several restoration projects. However, this grand building does give flight to your imagination when you visit and explore its many alcoves and corners. You can also explore the Museo dei Fori Imperiali inside the Market and visit the many exhibitions that are held here which will give you a deeper insight into the ancient Roman Empire.
Yes, you can visit and explore the wonders of this iconic structure with your Trajan’s Market tickets. There are several models, information panels and videos where you will learn more about the Trajan’s Forum and the Market. These resources will give you a deeper insight into how the market and the other establishments function and you can explore the marketplace as well as the restored alcove which will give you a good idea on who it originally looked.