It is a sepulchral monument and a masterpiece of sculpture. Erected to immortalize Traiano's exploits, it is 42 meters high and was built in the 2nd century A.D.
In ancient times they were considered one of the wonders of the classical world; today they show only one small part of their splendour. The great complex, consisting of 150 premises, was planned by Apollodoro from Damascus for Trajan in the II century A.D.
It is one of the most interesting architectural areas in Rome. The whole complex (square and buildings) was built in the sixteenth century according to Michelangelo's designs.