Largo di Torre Argentina is one of Rome’s most underrated “layers-of-history” stops: a modern traffic circle wrapped around the Sacred Area (Area Sacra di Largo Argentina)—an archaeological complex with the remains of four Republican-era temples (4th–2nd century BC) and the Curia of Pompey, where Julius Caesar was stabbed on March 15, 44 BC.
It’s also famous for something wonderfully Roman: cats—including the long-running Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary, run by volunteers and supported by donations.
Why Largo di Torre Argentina is worth your time ✅
A major ancient site in a “small footprint” 🏛️
You can experience a serious archaeological complex in under an hour. The Sacred Area preserves four temples commonly labeled A–D because identification isn’t fully certain.
It’s the real “Caesar moment” (not the Forum) ⚔️
Inside the complex, behind temples B and C, you can see the remains tied to the Curia of Pompey—the place where Caesar was killed on the Ides of March (March 15), 44 BC.
You’re steps from Rome’s greatest walking zone 🚶♂️
It sits right between Pantheon / Piazza Navona territory and Campo de’ Fiori, making it an easy “add-on” that doesn’t require a special detour.
What you’ll see at Largo di Torre Argentina 🎯
1) The four Republican temples (A–D) 🏛️
The complex contains four temples dating from the 4th century to the 2nd century BC.
Even if you don’t know your Roman deities, the vibe is unmistakable: columns, foundations, and the feeling of standing inside ancient Rome while scooters circle outside.
2) Curia of Pompey: Caesar’s assassination setting ⚠️
This is the headline for history lovers: Caesar was stabbed to death here on March 15, 44 BC during a Senate session held in the Curia of Pompey.
3) A site that shows Rome’s “re-use” habit 🧱
Over centuries, the area was transformed and reused—one reason it’s such a good place to understand how Rome constantly rebuilt on top of itself. (Turismo Roma’s description highlights later phases and the site’s long life.)
4) Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary 🐾
The sanctuary is a beloved volunteer-run project and does not receive public contributions, relying on donations.
Official visiting hours are listed as every day, 12:00–16:30.
Even if you don’t go inside, you’ll often spot cats lounging among the ruins from street level.
How to visit Largo di Torre Argentina (smart plan) ✅
Quick plan (45–60 minutes) ⏱️
- Enter the Sacred Area and walk the designated paths (it’s designed for a “complete loop” feel).
- Spend extra time at the Curia of Pompey spot (the Caesar connection).
- If you’re a cat person, add 10–15 minutes for the Cat Sanctuary (check hours).
Turismo Roma notes the ticket office and bookshop are at Torre del Papito (Piazza dei Calcarari).
How to get there 🚇🚌🚶♂️🚕
On foot (best option) 👟
- From the Pantheon: an easy walk (great for “Rome drift”).
- From Campo de’ Fiori: also a short walk.
By bus 🚌
There’s a major bus stop labeled “Argentina” nearby; common lines serving the area include 40, 46, 62, 70, 87 (and others).
(Transit routes change—use live directions if you’re timing something.)
By tram 🚋
Tram 8 is a popular option for moving between the center and Trastevere-side areas; nearby stops often referenced for the Largo Argentina zone include Arenula/Cairoli.
By taxi / ride-hail 🚕
Use: “Largo di Torre Argentina” or “Area Sacra di Largo Argentina” as the destination. It’s a straightforward drop-off point.
Hours / operating times ⏱️
Sacred Area (Area Sacra di Largo Argentina)
Turismo Roma lists:
- Tue–Sun:
- 9:30–19:00 (from the last Sunday in March to the last Saturday in October)
- 9:30–16:00 (from the last Sunday in October to the last Saturday in March)
- Closed Mondays, plus 25 Dec and 1 May
- Last admission: one hour before closing
Cat Sanctuary 🐾
The sanctuary lists daily opening hours: 12:00–16:30.
Tickets / prices 💳
Here’s the practical breakdown you’ll care about most:
| Ticket type | Price (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Intero (non-resident) | €7.00 |
| Ridotto (non-resident) | €4.00 |
| Intero (resident) | €4.00 |
| Ridotto (resident) | €3.00 |
These prices are shown on the official ticketing page, along with purchase rules.
Important entry rules ✅
- Pre-purchase is mandatory (and often time-slotted).
- Entry may be limited every 20 minutes and a typical visit is about 45 minutes (as described in official Rome tourism communication about reopening/visits).
Cat Sanctuary: entry is generally free, but donations are strongly encouraged (it’s donation-funded).
Tips & common mistakes ✅⚠️
✅ Do this
- Book ahead (this isn’t a “show up anytime” site anymore).
- Treat it as a combo stop: Sacred Area + a short walk to Pantheon/Navona or Campo de’ Fiori.
- Bring water in warm months; you’re in the dense center with lots of walking.
⚠️ Avoid this
- Don’t assume Caesar died in the Roman Forum—this is the spot connected to the Curia of Pompey.
- Don’t count on facilities: Turismo Roma notes toilets are not available at the archaeological area.
- Don’t plan the Cat Sanctuary outside its posted hours.
FAQ ❓
Is Largo di Torre Argentina free to visit?
The square is public, but entering the Sacred Area is ticketed and time-managed.
Where exactly was Julius Caesar assassinated?
In the Curia of Pompey, associated with the complex at Largo Argentina; Turismo Roma states he was stabbed there on March 15, 44 BC.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes—official info indicates pre-purchase is required and access is controlled.
Can I visit the cat sanctuary?
Yes, during its posted hours (12:00–16:30 daily) and donations help keep it running.
Conclusion
Largo di Torre Argentina is peak Rome in miniature: Republican temples, the Curia of Pompey and the Caesar story, and a living present-day layer with the cat sanctuary—right in the middle of the historic center. If you want a high-impact stop that’s different from the “big ticket” monuments (and incredibly easy to fit into your walking day), this is it.
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