: Trajan was the first Roman emperor born outside of Italy, specifically in Italica, Spain. His rise from a "provincial" background to the throne was a major turning point in Roman social and political history.
Trajan's legacy is still visible today through several massive architectural projects in Rome: Trajan's Column Historical landmark Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy Marcus Traianus
The name refers to two significant figures in Roman history: the renowned Emperor Trajan (reigned 98–117 CE) and his father, a distinguished general and senator. : Trajan was the first Roman emperor born
Often cited as the world's first multi-story shopping mall, this complex housed over 150 shops and offices. Trajan's Forum Historical landmark OpenRome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy Often cited as the world's first multi-story shopping
: After being adopted as heir by the unpopular Emperor Nerva, Trajan did not rush back to Rome. Instead, he stayed on the Germanic frontier for nearly a year to ensure the loyalty of the legions. He famously summoned the Praetorian Guard members who had bullied Nerva and, according to historian Cassius Dio, "put them out of the way" to restore order.
: He was so highly regarded for his fairness and benevolence that the Senate officially bestowed upon him the title Optimus Princeps , meaning "the best ruler". For centuries after his death, new emperors were inaugurated with the wish that they would be "luckier than Augustus and better than Trajan".