Architecture in Rome: Testaccio Market

The New Testaccio Market, located a few hundred meters from the old market, was designed by the architect Marco Rietti and inaugurated on July 2, 2012 following a long research on the market square and a careful design participated with the collaboration of the operators of the old regional market. One of the main purpose of the Market, absolutely centered, has been to return the neighborhood to an important meeting point, exchange and social integration. A real neighborhood square!

The building is studied on a square mesh that articulated in the interior spaces, they are double height and glazed with roof skylights. Market desks are deployed on a road level, while above they find technical volumes, offices and exhibition spaces.

The analysis of the consolidated urban context and the study of architecture and surrounding batches greatly influenced the composition of the new complex. Just the square mesh was chosen by analyzing the existing circle, there is a perfect dialogue with the lots adjacent to the market. The twenty-three entrances, in which the sinuous-shaped lanterns have been positioned, make the complex permeable and allow the absolute continuity of the use of spaces with the neighborhood. Even companionship between the sidewalk and flooring of the market and the natural entrance of light guarantee perceptual continuity between out and inside.

The bond of new architecture with the site is also confirmed by the choice of materials. The terracotta cubes that cover the façades remind to the presence of the nearby known Monte dei Cocci. The steel-carrying structures, exposed and unseen, are a clear reference to the notable examples of industrial architecture from the beginning of the century still present in the neighborhood.

The building welcomes the city and the city animates it, lives it.

www.mercatoditestaccio.it