Macellum (Provision Market), Pompei

The Provision Market of Pompeii was built alongside the Forum to provide further space for the city’s growing central market. The existing building was constructed in approximately 130 BC, replacing the original market building. Built around a central courtyard, the complex features various specialized units for the sale of foodstuffs, including a row of twelve internal shops lining its southern side.

Upon discovering the large, columned building, archaeologists at first believed it to be a pantheon — a central temple for the worship of many gods. It was only after the discovery of fish bones and jarred fruits underneath the ash that it became clear this building had been used as a market. It is believed that permanent stalls were set up on the north side, opening outward to the street, where they were shaded from the sun for much of the day. These shops sold fruit, nuts, and bread, among other things. At the southeast corner of the complex, a specialized hall was used by local traders to sell meat and fish on marble counters. In the centre of the courtyard stood a circular arrangement of columns around a shallow pool and drain, which vendors used to clean and gut fish.

The market had three entrances. The southern entrance is notable for the checkerboard-patterned wall adjacent to it, considered one of the finest-quality walls constructed during the Roman era of Pompeii. At the back of the market, there is a mysterious room that was used as a shrine. There has been much debate over the paintings and statues found there. The latest and most widely accepted theory is that they depict Emperor Augustus Caesar, as well as local figures who commanded respect within the town.