Trajan's  Market​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 23 January 2024
Situated to one side of the Via dei Fori Imperiali, Trajan's Market in Rome was established in the early part of the second century AD. 

​Named after the Roman Emperor Trajan, the complex is said to constitute the "world's oldest shopping centre". Its location sees it surrounded by some of the very A-list sights of Rome including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Altare della Patria. ​
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Trajan's Market, known as "Mercati di Traiano" in Italian, is an ancient Roman complex located on the Via dei Fori Imperiali in Rome, Italy. It is one of the oldest and best-preserved examples of a multilevel shopping mall in the world, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and commerce of ancient Rome.
History
Trajan's Market was built between 100 and 110 AD during the reign of the Roman Emperor Trajan. The complex was designed by the architect Apollodorus of Damascus and served as a commercial center and administrative hub of the ancient city. It is located on the slopes of the Quirinal Hill and adjacent to Trajan's Forum, one of the most impressive and grandiose imperial fora in Rome.

The market consisted of a series of shops and offices arranged in multiple levels, with a central courtyard. It housed a variety of merchants, artisans, and officials, making it a bustling hub of commercial and administrative activities during the Roman Empire.
Key features
  • Architecture: The complex is made of brick and concrete, and it consists of several levels and terraces connected by staircases and ramps. The lower levels were used for shops, while the upper levels likely housed administrative offices and possibly even apartments.
  • Museum: Today, Trajan's Market serves as a museum, housing exhibits related to ancient Roman history and archaeology. The museum offers insights into the daily life of ancient Romans, with displays of artifacts, sculptures, and architectural fragments found on-site and in the surrounding area.
  • Views: From the upper levels of Trajan's Market, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Trajan's Forum, the Colosseum, and other nearby historical landmarks.
  • Accessibility: Trajan's Market is centrally located in Rome, within walking distance of other major attractions. It is easily accessible by public transportation.
  • Opening Hours and Admission: The complex is open to the public during regular hours, and there is an admission fee to enter the museum.
  • Guided Tours: Guided tours of Trajan's Market and the surrounding archaeological area are available, providing deeper insights into the history and significance of the complex.
Mercati di Traiano
City: Rome

Province: ​Metropolitan City of Rome

Region: ​Lazio

Established: 113 AD

Nearest Metro stop: Colosseo - Line B - 800 m - 10 minute walk​

​Fly to: ​​Rome Fiumicino Airport - 30 minutes by car (30 km)​​​

Close by: Piazza Venezia, Il Vittoriano, Roman Forum, Colosseum​​

​​Recommended accommodation: Hotel Artemide
UNESCO World Heritage Site

Historic Centre of Rome, the Properties of the Holy See in the City Enjoying Extraterritorial Rights and San Paolo Fuori le Mura

​Year: 1980

Trajan's  Market​​  Gallery

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