Largo di Torre Argentina is built around the sunken Area Sacra in its center, a small and little-known archaeological site containing the remains of four temples built between the second and fourth centuries BC. The Theatre of Pompey remains were also found here, said to be the site of Julius Caesar’s assassination. Though the site is closed to the public, it has become a cat sanctuary, hosting strays that lounge among the ruins. Volunteers care for the cats, many of which will jump onto the sidewalks for a quick pat by passing tourists.
Most visitors in Rome pass through Largo di Torre Argentina at least once, and virtually any tour of ancient Roman highlights will include a stop here along with the Pantheon, Colosseum, and Roman Forum. Due to the square’s location, a stop here is often included in tours of the historic center, Trastevere, and the Jewish Ghetto.
Largo di Torre Argentaria is in the historic center of Rome along Via di Torre Argentaria, and a number of city bus routes stop in the square.
This busy square sees slightly less traffic at night, and the illuminated Area Sacra archaeological ruins are particularly striking after sunset.
Rome is famous for its resident stray cats who sunbathe lazily among the city’s many Roman ruins, including the Colosseum and Forum. One of its most important cat sanctuaries is the Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary, located in the Area Sacra at the center of Largo di Torre Argentina and hosting around 150 cats who are fed and cared for by daily volunteers. The shelter also takes care of vaccinating and sterilizing their wards, to keep the population healthy and stable.
