Trajan's Forum

Trajan's Forum is an archaeological complex in the Monti district of Rome that includes a basilica, two libraries, and a multi-story market building. The column at the center of the square still stands today and displays more than 2,500 figures on its outer surface that tell the story of the emperor's military campaigns.

Emperor Trajan commissioned architect Apollodorus of Damascus to build the complex in 107 AD after Rome won the war against the kingdom of Dacia. The work required removing part of the Quirinal Hill to create enough space for the new buildings between the two hills.

The Markets of Trajan contained over 150 shops and offices across multiple floors, demonstrating the advanced commercial organization of ancient Rome.

Access is through the Museum of the Imperial Forums, which displays findings from the site and explains the historical context. The paths lead through several levels of the ancient streets and rooms, allowing visitors to see the scale of the complex from different angles.

The Markets of Trajan form one of the oldest covered shopping centers in the world, with shops and offices across six different levels. The construction technique using bricks and concrete was an engineering innovation for its time and allowed the creation of large vaults without wooden supports.

Location: Rome

GPS coordinates: 41.89542,12.48587

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:41