Trajan's Market

The history...

Trajan's Market is an ancient shopping complex built around AD 100-110 during the rule of Emperor Trajan. It is often considered the world’s first "shopping mall."

Located near Trajan’s Forum, the market was designed by Apollodorus of Damascus, a famous Roman architect who also worked on Trajan's Forum.

The market served as a place where people could buy all kinds of goods, including food, clothing, and spices. It was made of red brick and had several levels, with around 150 different shops and offices. The market was organized so different goods were sold in specific sections, much like modern shopping centers.

The structure of the market is impressive because it was built on a hillside, with multiple stories and terraces. This smart design made it easy for visitors to walk between different levels of the market. The lower levels were used for shops, while the upper levels were used for government offices and other administrative purposes.

Trajan’s Market was more than just a place to shop; it was a lively center for trade, business, and social interactions in ancient Rome. People would come here to buy their daily necessities, meet with friends, or simply spend time in the bustling atmosphere.

Today, much of Trajan’s Market still stands, and it remains an important historical site in Rome. Visitors can walk through the ruins and get a glimpse of what life was like in ancient Rome. The market shows the advanced architectural and engineering skills of the Romans and is a key example of how they organized their cities.

Trajan’s Market is now part of a museum, where people can learn about the history of this incredible place.

Source ChatGPT

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150

shops

Trajan's Market had around 150 shops and offices, making it one of the largest shopping complexes of its time.

AD 110

completed

Trajan's Market was completed around AD 110, during the reign of Emperor Trajan, as part of his massive building projects in Rome.

10,000

sq/meters

Trajan's Market covers an area of approximately 10,000 square meters (107,639 square feet), showcasing its vast scale for trade and administration in ancient Rome.