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Trajan’s Market is a well-preserved ancient Roman commercial complex built in the early 2nd century AD. Often considered the world’s oldest shopping mall, it comprises a series of multi-level, semi-circular exedrae and tabernae arranged around a large courtyard. The complex was a hub for various commercial activities and likely housed administrative offices.
Today the museum complex of Trajan’s Antique Market is part of the Monti district.
History
Trajan’s Market, constructed in the early 2nd century AD, is a testament to ancient Rome’s grandeur and architectural prowess. Built during the reign of Emperor Trajan, who ruled from 98 to 117 AD, this complex was part of a larger project that included the construction of Trajan’s Forum and the celebrated Trajan’s Column. The Market was designed by Apollodorus of Damascus, a renowned Greek architect, and it reflects the innovative urban planning of the time.
Read also about the Roman Forum.
The market complex was a multifunctional hub, combining commercial and administrative functions. Its intricate layout comprised multi-level buildings, semi-circular exedrae, and numerous tabernae (shops) lined the corridors. The buildings housed a variety of goods and services, making it one of the earliest examples of a shopping mall. Administrative offices and public spaces also suggest that the complex played a role in official and social activities.
Constructed on the slopes of the Quirinal Hill, Trajan’s Market adapted to the natural topography, showcasing Roman engineering ingenuity. The complex’s innovative use of space included a series of terraces supported by vaults and arches, contributing to its architectural significance. The Market’s proximity to Trajan’s Forum, linked by a grand staircase, further emphasized its connection to ancient Rome’s political and civic center.
Over the centuries, Trajan’s Market experienced various transformations. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the complex was repurposed for different uses, including housing and artisan workshops. Despite these changes, many of the original structures have endured, making it one of the best-preserved archaeological sites from ancient Rome. Recognizing its historical and architectural importance, Trajan’s Market has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, allowing modern visitors to step back in time and marvel at the ingenuity of Roman urban planning.
Interesting Facts about Ancient Market of Trajan
- Architectural Innovation: Trajan’s Market is renowned for its innovative architectural design. The multi-level complex utilized a series of terraces, vaults, and arches to adapt to the natural slope of the Quirinal Hill, showcasing advanced engineering techniques employed by ancient Roman architects.
- Ancient Shopping Mall: Often referred to as the world’s oldest shopping mall, Trajan’s Market housed a variety of tabernae (shops) that offered goods and services. This early form of a commercial center demonstrates the Romans’ understanding of urban planning and their desire for centralized, convenient spaces for trade.
- Integration with Trajan’s Forum: Trajan’s Market was intricately connected to Trajan’s Forum through a grand staircase. This physical and visual link between the Market and ancient Rome’s political and civic center emphasized the complex’s role in commercial and administrative activities.
- Apollodorus of Damascus: The renowned Greek architect Apollodorus of Damascus, who designed Trajan’s Market, was an architect and a military engineer. His contributions extended beyond buildings to include bridges and other infrastructure, showcasing the diverse talents of ancient architects.
- Adaptive Reuse Over Time: Trajan’s Market underwent various transformations after the decline of the Roman Empire. It was repurposed for residential use and later served as a medieval fortress. The ability of the structure to adapt to changing needs over the centuries highlights its enduring architectural quality.
- World Heritage Site: Recognizing its historical and architectural significance, Trajan’s Market, along with Trajan’s Forum, has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This status ensures its preservation and underscores its importance in understanding ancient Rome’s cultural and urban development.
- Museum and Exhibition Space: Today, parts of Trajan’s Market have been converted into a museum and exhibition space. Visitors can explore the archaeological remains and artifacts discovered on-site, gaining insights into daily life in ancient Rome and the commercial activities that took place in the Market.
What to See on the Trajan’s Market
When visiting Trajan’s Market, there are several key features and areas to explore to fully appreciate the historical and architectural significance of this ancient complex:
- Tabernae (Shops): Walk through the well-preserved tabernae, the ancient Roman shops that lined the corridors of Trajan’s Market. Imagine the bustling commercial activity that once took place in these spaces and observe the layout designed to accommodate various merchants and their goods.
- Grand Staircase: Ascend or descend the grand staircase that connects Trajan’s Market to Trajan’s Forum. This monumental staircase serves a practical purpose in linking the Market to the civic center. It provides a dramatic architectural element highlighting the integration of different parts of ancient Roman urban planning.
- Terraces and Architecture: Marvel at the ingenuity of constructing terraces, vaults, and arches. Please note how the complex adapts to the natural slope of the Quirinal Hill, showcasing the Romans’ mastery of engineering and ability to integrate structures seamlessly into the landscape.
- Exedrae: Explore the semi-circular exedrae, which were architectural elements often used for public gatherings or as meeting places. These spaces provide insights into the social aspects of Roman life and the multifunctional nature of Trajan’s Market.
- Museum and Exhibitions: Visit the museum and exhibition spaces within Trajan’s Market. Here, you can view artifacts and learn more about the on-site archaeological discoveries. These exhibits offer a deeper understanding of ancient Rome’s daily life, commerce, and cultural aspects.
- Architectural Details: Pay attention to the intricate architectural details, such as carvings and decorative elements, that adorn the structures. These details explain the time’s craftsmanship and the ancient Romans’ aesthetic preferences.
- Views of Rome: Take advantage of the elevated position of Trajan’s Market to enjoy panoramic views of Rome. The location on Quirinal Hill provides a unique perspective of the surrounding cityscape. It allows visitors to appreciate the strategic placement of this complex within the urban fabric of ancient Rome.
Remember to check for any guided tours or informational materials available at the site, as they can enhance your experience by providing historical context and insights into the significance of Trajan’s Market.
Read also about the Top 10 Farmers Markets of Rome
How to Get to the Trajan’s Market
- Address: Via IV November, 94, Roma
- Metro stations: Colosseo or Cavour, line B
- Bus stop: Piazza Venezia. Lines: 117, 40, 60, 64, 70, 170, H, 53, 80, 85, 87, 175, 186, 271, 571, 810, N7, N8, N9, N15, N18.
Opening Hours and Tickets
- Tuesday – Sunday: 9 am – 7 pm
- Monday: closed
- Price: Adults: € 13; Citizens of EU countries (aged 18 – 24): € 11
- Website: www.mercatiditraiano.it
Things to Know Before Visit
What is Trajan’s market?
When was Trajan’s market built?
How was the Trajan market built?
What is Trajan best known for?
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