The story of shopping malls

The first modern shopping mall opened in 1956 in Minnesota, USA. It was called the Southdale Center. This mall was very different from the small shops people knew. Southdale Center was indoors, with a roof and air conditioning. This was perfect for Minnesota, where winters are very cold. The mall had many shops, so people could find everything they needed in one place. It also had comfortable areas to sit and relax. People loved shopping indoors, away from the cold.

But the idea of malls started long before Southdale Center. In ancient Rome, there was a place called Trajan’s Market. It was built almost 2,000 years ago! Trajan’s Market was like a shopping mall from the past. It had more than 150 shops and food stalls. People could buy clothes, food, and even jewellery there. It was a busy and lively place where people met to shop and talk.

In the 1980s and 1990s, shopping malls became very popular. Teenagers went there to spend time with their friends. Malls wanted to be exciting places for them. They had fashion shows, live music, or holiday celebrations.

Today, malls are different. Many people shop online because it is quick and easy. Malls make less money, and some have closed. But shopping malls are not gone! Many malls have new things now. Some even have rock climbing walls, trampoline parks, or escape rooms. Others have art galleries or museums. These changes help malls stay exciting and popular.

Shopping malls are not just for shopping. They are a place to meet friends, try new things, and have fun. Next time you go to a mall, think about how they have changed over time. From ancient Rome to today, malls are about much more than shopping!