The market dates from the middle of the 1st century.
It took the form of a square 35.5 m × 28 m (116 ft × 92 ft) in size, surrounded by a portico and shops on two sides.
The northern side had a portico, while an exedra occupied the southern side.
The exedra probably housed a statue of Mercury.

In order to compensate for the natural incline of the ground on which the market stands, its builders undertook significant earthworks.
These earthworks have been dated as being amongst the oldest Roman constructions, and their orientation vis-à-vis the forum seems to suggest that they were not built on any earlier foundations.
The modern-day location of the remains from the market near the forum should however not be misunderstood as indicating a link between the two.
The market was almost completely destroyed during the construction of the Byzantine fort.
It was excavated in 1918-1919.
The market dates from the middle of the 1st century. It took the form of a square 35.5 m × 28 m (116 ft × 92 ft) in size, surrounded by a portico and shops on two sides. The northern side had a portico, while an exedra occupied the southern side. The exedra probably housed a statue of Mercury.
In order to compensate for the natural incline of the ground on which the market stands, its builders undertook significant earthworks. These earthworks have been dated as being amongst the oldest Roman constructions, and their orientation vis-à-vis the forum seems to suggest that they were not built on any earlier foundations. The modern-day location of the remains from the market near the forum should however not be misunderstood as indicating a link between the two. The market was almost completely destroyed during the construction of the Byzantine fort. It was excavated in 1918-1919.
Dougga