Trajan’s Market, a renowned architectural marvel in the heart of ancient Rome, stands as a testament to the administrative prowess and grandiose scale that characterized the Roman Empire. This building, shrouded in mystery and intrigue, continues to captivate the imagination of historians and visitors alike.
A Glimpse into Roman Society
The Roman Empire, spanning nearly five centuries, underwent dramatic transformations that reshaped every facet of Roman life, from religious practices to political structures and economic activity. The emperor, wielding immense power and often revered as a divine figure, held the reins of the empire’s destiny.
While some emperors, like the infamous Caligula, Nero, and Commodus, squandered their resources on personal whims and lavish excesses, others left a legacy of enlightened rule and benevolence. Trajan, a Spanish-born emperor, stands as a shining example of such a “good emperor”. His reign (98-117 AD) witnessed the empire reaching its zenith, expanding from Portugal to Afghanistan and encompassing vast swathes of Europe, Africa, and Asia.
A Multifaceted Monument
Trajan’s Market is the only section of the Imperial Forums, grand squares built by emperors at the city’s core, open to the public today. This six-level structure is anchored by a breathtaking Great Hall, believed to have served as the administrative center. The Hall offers stunning views of Trajan’s Forum and, on lower levels, visitors can traverse the Via Biberatica, an ancient Roman road that once connected bustling shops.
Unveiling the Secrets of a Roman Masterpiece
Despite its impressive scale and intricate architecture, Trajan’s Market remains shrouded in mystery. The identity of its original architect and its exact function remain topics of debate.
Originally believed to be a grand shopping mall commissioned by Trajan in conjunction with his forum, recent discoveries of bricks bearing the mark of Emperor Domitian (81-96 AD) suggest that the construction may have begun during his reign and been completed by Trajan around 115 AD.
The project, which necessitated the partial demolition of a hill, is traditionally attributed to Apollodorus of Damascus, Trajan’s favored architect. Tragically, Apollodorus was executed by Emperor Hadrian for daring to question his architectural tastes.
Beyond the Marketplace
Modern investigations have revealed that Trajan’s Market was more than just a shopping center. Archaeologists believe it was a multifunctional government complex, serving as a hub for city administration, judicial proceedings, public archives, and a marketplace.
The building, which may have also been linked to Trajan’s harbor at Fiumicino, endured through centuries, surviving well after the fall of the Roman Empire in 476 AD.
A Legacy of Transformation
In the Middle Ages, Trajan’s Market transitioned into a fortified castle with a tower built in the 1300s by the Conti family. Pope Bonifacius VIII acquired the “castle” and later sold it to Holy Roman Emperor Henry VII. In 1574, it was converted into a monastery, serving that purpose until 1885, when the excavation of Trajan’s Forum commenced.
Trajan’s Market stands as a compelling testament to the grandeur and complexity of ancient Rome. Its intricate design, diverse functions, and captivating history continue to captivate and inspire.
