Trajan, a powerful figure in Roman history, ruled the empire from 98 to 117 AD. He is remembered for his decisive military victories and his focus on improving the lives of Roman citizens. While Trajan is often hailed as a conqueror, he was also a ruler deeply concerned with the welfare of his people.
A Ruler of Two Worlds: War and Welfare
Trajan’s reign was a time of both military expansion and social reform. He led the Roman army to conquer vast territories, expanding the empire’s reach. Yet, he also prioritized the needs of the Roman citizenry. He dedicated significant resources to improving public infrastructure, providing essential services, and caring for the less fortunate.
Trajan’s domestic policies were a testament to his commitment to the well-being of his people. He implemented programs to aid poor families, investing in education and providing for their children. He recognized the importance of a robust infrastructure and focused on repairing and expanding the Roman road system, building new bridges and aqueducts, and creating luxurious public baths. He also made it a point to undo the injustices of his predecessor, Domitian, by freeing prisoners and welcoming exiles back to Rome.
A Grand Marketplace for the Roman Empire
Trajan’s legacy extends beyond his military triumphs and his domestic reforms. He also commissioned the construction of a monumental marketplace, Trajan’s Markets, a testament to his vision and ambition. This magnificent complex, built between 107 and 110 AD, was designed by the renowned architect Apollodorus of Damascus. It served as a vibrant hub of commerce, housing over 150 shops, or “tabernae,” where merchants from across the Roman Empire could sell their wares.
A Multifaceted Architectural Masterpiece
The Markets of Trajan, located at the foot of Quirinal Hill, were more than just a marketplace. They formed an integral part of the Forum of Trajan, a vast complex dedicated to the emperor. Apollodorus designed a grand, semi-circular facade with a row of columns and smaller, dome-covered exedras at each end. The Great Hall, a spacious, 32-meter long, and 8-meter high hall, may have been used for concerts, speeches, or educational gatherings.
The building’s innovative design allowed light and space to flow freely. A series of arched concrete vaults supported by piers provided a sunlit haven for shoppers, protecting them from the elements.
An Enduring Legacy: Visiting Trajan’s Markets
Trajan’s Markets stand as a remarkable example of Roman urban architecture, a testament to the ingenuity and vision of its creators. Despite the passage of time and the ravages of earthquakes, the complex remains surprisingly well-preserved. It offers a glimpse into the vibrant commercial life of the Roman Empire and the architectural marvels of that era.
Today, visitors can explore the main shopping street, Via Biberatica, and wander through the corridors where the tabernae once stood. Tickets are required to access the complex, providing access to the Imperial Forum Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Roman history.
Trajan’s Markets, located on Via dei Fori Imperiali in Rome, are a short walk from the Colosseum, offering visitors a chance to experience a piece of Roman history firsthand. A visit to this grand complex is a journey back in time, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life and legacy of the emperor Trajan, the conqueror, the reformer, and the builder.
