Trajan's Market, Rome

Trajan's Market, nestled in the heart of Rome, Italy, is a remarkable testament to ancient Roman engineering and commercial life. This sprawling complex, often considered the world's oldest shopping mall, was constructed between 100 and 110 AD during the reign of Emperor Trajan. Today, it stands as a museum that offers a window into the daily activities of ancient Romans.

The site features a semi-circular façade that harmoniously blends with the contours of the adjacent Quirinal Hill. Its multi-level structure once housed over 150 shops and offices, where ancient Romans would conduct their business and socialize. The market's architectural genius is attributed to Apollodorus of Damascus, who ingeniously designed the grand complex using brick and concrete, materials that have ensured its endurance through the ages.

Visitors to Trajan's Market can explore the remains of the once-bustling corridors and shops. The complex includes the Great Hall, which likely served as a covered market, and the Via Biberatica, a street lined with shopfronts. One can also find administrative offices that once managed the welfare of the city, highlighting the multifunctional nature of the market.

The museum within Trajan's Market delves into the history of the complex and its role in ancient Rome. Exhibits showcase artifacts recovered from the site and offer insights into the economic life of the time, including the types of goods that were traded and the daily lives of the merchants and customers.