Exclusive Guided Tour of Trajan’s Market: Explore the World's First Shopping Mall

Highlights

• Trajan's Market & Museum of Imperial Fora
• Trajan's Column
• Expert Live Guide

What's included

Itinerary

1. 1

   Mercati di Traiano - Museo dei Fori Imperiali

   1h

   Begin your exploration at Trajan’s Markets, often hailed as the world’s oldest shopping mall—a remarkable achievement of Roman engineering. As you wander through the multi-level structures, you'll feel transported back 2,000 years into ancient Rome, with a guide who will share captivating insights into daily life and commerce that made this vibrant hub central to society. Marvel at the grand arches, well-preserved shopfronts, and innovative architectural designs that continue to influence modern buildings, all while capturing sweeping views of the nearby Imperial Forums, perfect for memorable photos. Your journey progresses to the Museum of the Imperial Fora, where an impressive collection of sculptures and artifacts unveils Rome’s rich history. As you stroll through the exhibits, your guide will recount fascinating tales about the Imperial Fora, the beating heart of Roman life, and the emperors behind these monumental projects.

2. 2

   Trajan's Forum

   20min

   The Forum of Trajan, as the largest of the Imperial Forums, was a grand political and commercial hub in ancient Rome, featuring impressive structures like a basilica, libraries, markets, and a majestic temple, reflecting the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins to appreciate the architectural innovation and historical significance of this monumental complex. For a deeper understanding, a private guided tour of Trajan's Market and the Imperial Forums provides detailed insights into their history, construction, and role in Roman public life, making it an enriching experience for history enthusiasts.

3. 3

   Forum of Nerva

   20min

   The Forum of Nerva, built under Emperor Domitian's initial vision and completed by his successor Nerva in 97 AD, served as the smallest of the Imperial Forums and was characterized by its narrow, colonnaded design, exemplified by structures like the Temple of Minerva, which still retains two of its original columns. Exploring these ruins offers a glimpse into Roman architectural ingenuity and imperial history, highlighting how the forum's modest size belied its significance as a political and social space in ancient Rome. Visitors can appreciate the remaining columns and envision the forum's original grandeur, enriching their understanding of Roman urban development and imperial legacy.

Before you go

Location