When Emily in Paris season 5 hit Netflix on December 18, fans went crazy for the new season. Some have already finished all the episodes, while others are taking it slow.
One moment that really grabbed everyone’s attention comes in the second episode, when Emily is walking with her Roman lover, Marcello.
As they pass a grand building, Marcello tells her it’s the “world’s first shopping mall,” catching Emily’s and the audience’s interest.
Mercati di Traiano: World’s First Shopping Mall
Mercati di Traiano is in the heart of Rome, along Via dei Fori Imperiali, and is almost 1000 years old.
Built during Emperor Trajan’s rule in the early 2nd century AD, it was like a multi-story building, built into the side of Quirinal Hill.
The museum of the Imperial Fora (opened in 2017) is located inside the market and shows off many ancient Roman artifacts.
Mercati di Traiano Inside Look
If you see the picture, the first area you see inside was once where people got free wheat, and in the end, there is the balcony with an amazing view of the market, Trajan’s Forum, and the Vittoriano.
One street that cuts through the market is called Via Biberatica, which was home to Roman taverns and shops.
There were also big halls at the lower level, where it was believed concerts used to take place. The market’s huge central hall has a big roof made of concrete that lets in light and air.
The building is mostly made of brick and concrete.
Mercati di Traiano in Emily in Paris Season 5
In season 5 of Emily in Paris, Mercati di Traiano is more than just a pretty backdrop. Its ancient brick walls and arches create a cool mix of old and new.
The scenes filmed here highlight the beauty of Rome, where love, fashion, and history all come together.
When Marcello calls it the “world’s first shopping mall,” Emily jokingly replies, saying she could picture brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Fendi in the market, alongside Marcello’s business, Muratori (his cashmere brand).
