Navigate

Back
Contents
Level 1
Guide
Hints
Walkthrough

Forward
Level 2
Hints
Walkthrough
Level 3
Guide
Hints
Walkthrough

Trajan's Markets
Items: 35
Kills: 5
Among Rome's classic structures, Trajan's Markets, though not as well known, is one of the most splendid.
Sights to See
Trajan's markets was once considered one of the wonders of the Classical world for its enormous complex of one hundred fifty shops. The architect Apollodoro from Damascus planned the complex for Emperor Trajan in the second century A.D. Now it is only a shadow of its former splendor.

The complex, placed between the Trajan Forum and the slopes of the Quirinal Hill, is a sequence of rooms used as shops and offices. The shops sold everything from silks and spices imported from the Middle East to fresh fish, fruit, and flowers. In the direction of "Via Nazionale", there is a large room which represents the centre of the whole complex.

Watch your step as you explore the markets, as some restoration work is always going on to slow the process of decay, which has taken a particularly high toll on this landmark. Some of the original machinery that the Roman engineers built to open and close gates still operates, but don't be confused by the sophisticated machinery that runs the new Italian sewer.

There are, however, a few items of antiquity that reveal that the ancient Roman engineers and inventors were ahead of their time.
Ancient Engineering
Within the markets you will encounter a mechanical sentry. Getting blasted by the sentry will spell instant death. Also within the markets, you will find that one of the statues of a Roman legionary will come to life and attack. When you return to the garden building in the streets of Rome, the three serpent heads above the door will prove themselves to be more than just a couple of pretty faces.
Souvenirs
Early on, you will find a crowbar and a lasersight. Both of which are necessary, but one of which you probably should already have. The objects you are searching for are the Mars Symbol and the Venus Symbol, but in order to obtain those, you will also have to find the Golden Coin, and a valve wheel.
Hidden Treasures
There are three secrets to be found. The first and third secrets can be easily missed if you're not the type that goes back and investigate areas you've already visited. The second secret can only be found if you're extremely thorough.
Hazards
There aren't too many hazards in the market. The biggest problem you will face will be the mechanical sentry, the legionary statue, and the three gate serpents. So beside them, enjoy the scenery.