Database: Mercati di Traiano

A fine example of the many enduring landmarks left behind by prolific Roman builder, Emperor Trajan. His Mercati is thought to be the world's oldest shopping mall and when fully operational it housed no less than 150 shops and offices.

Designed by Trajan's favourite architect, Apollodorus of Damascus between 107 and 110 C.E. it was considered one of the wonders of the ancient world over, say, a 91 mile long aqueduct providing the whole city with clean water. No, the shopping mall is far more impressive.