Trajan's Market
Build a trip to Rome
About
Often described as the world's first shopping mall, this complex was built in the early 2nd century AD by Apollodorus of Damascus. The semi-circular brick structure housed offices and shops for the Roman Forum. Walking through the 'Via Biberatica,' the ancient street of taverns, you feel the density and sophistication of Roman urban life. Expert recommendation: visit the Museum of the Imperial Forums housed inside to see the architectural reconstructions. Pro tip: the upper levels offer an incredible, less-crowded vantage point looking down over the ruins of Trajan's Forum and the Victor Emmanuel monument. It’s an excellent alternative if the main Forum is too crowded.
Highlights
- World's first shopping mall
- Trajan's Column proximity
- Imperial Forum views
- Roman administrative ruins
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
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Altare della Patria (Vittoriano)
A controversial yet undeniable landmark, this massive white marble monument was built to honor Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a unified Italy. Often nicknamed 'The Wedding Cake,' its neoclassical design features grand staircases, Corinthian columns, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The scale is monumental, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding ancient ruins. Expert recommendation: take the 'Rome from the Sky' glass elevator to the terrace for an unobstructed view of the Colosseum and Forum. Pro tip: the monument is free to enter, but the elevator to the top has a separate fee; visit at noon to see the changing of the guard ceremony at the eternal flame.
Roman Forum
Once the beating heart of ancient Rome, the Forum served as the city's central hub for political, religious, and commercial life for centuries. Walking down the Via Sacra, you encounter the ruins of the Curia, the Temple of Saturn, and the Arch of Titus, evoking a sense of the immense power held by the Republic. The sensory experience is one of dusty majesty, where white marble fragments contrast against the deep green Mediterranean pines. Experts suggest starting at the Capitoline Hill overlook for a comprehensive layout view before descending. Pro tip: wear sturdy walking shoes as the ancient basalt stones are uneven; your Colosseum ticket includes entry here, so visit both on the same day.
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Capitoline Museums
Dating back to 1471, these are considered the world's first public museums, located on the historic Capitoline Hill in buildings designed by Michelangelo. The collection is a treasure trove of Roman history, featuring the iconic 'Capitoline Wolf' and the massive bronze equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius. The underground 'Galleria Lapidaria' connects the two main palaces and offers views over the Roman Forum. Expert recommendation: don't miss the Tabularium terrace for the most famous photo-op of the ruins below. Pro tip: the museum is often less crowded than the Vatican; spend time in the courtyard of the Palazzo dei Conservatori to see the giant fragments of the Colossus of Constantine.
Quirinal Palace
Perched on the highest of the Seven Hills, this palace has been the residence of Popes, Kings, and now the President of the Italian Republic. The Piazza del Quirinale features the massive Dioscuri fountain and offers a great view toward St. Peter's. The interior is a museum of Italian history, with tapestries, clocks, and frescoes. Expert recommendation: watch the changing of the guard ceremony (Corazzieri) every day at 3:00 PM (4:00 PM in summer). Pro tip: the palace is open to the public only on certain days and requires booking at least 5 days in advance through the official presidency website. It is one of the most secure and well-maintained sites in Italy.
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