Not surprisingly the Imperial Forum Museum at Trajan’s market is one of my favorite museums in Rome.  It is described as an “ancient shopping mall” after all and the Jersey girl in me just can’t resist that.   Trajan’s market makes a great stop between touring the Imperial Forum (near Piazza Venezia) and heading to the Monti neighborhood for a meal.

Trajan’s market was constructed in multiple levels and visitors can still explore the various layers.  The market was built during Emperor Trajan’s reign (around 100 AD).  The Imperial Forum Museum is dedicated to the history of ancient architecture of Rome and includes models to help you visualize what the imperial forum looked like at its peak.  The views of the ruins and the entire forum area are amazing from the highest level of the market.

In addition to the exhibitions focused on ancient architecture and restoration projects, the museum also features rotating exhibitions that take advantage of the beautiful surroundings.  

To commemorate World Food Day the museum had a special exhibition “Tales About Food and Fashion” combining two of my favorite things in October.

The designs ranged from dresses embellished with popcorn and pineapples to creations made from fabric designed to look like food items.  Maybe pretzel “sequins” will become a trend.    

This large carrot purse has potential to be the perfect accessory for a spring picnic.