The Largo di Torre Argentina in Rome is a captivating site that effortlessly blends ancient history with a charmingly modern twist. This archaeological treasure, located in the heart of the city, features the remains of four Republican-era temples and part of Pompey's Theatre, where Julius Caesar met his infamous end. These ruins, sunken below street level, evoke a sense of timelessness, drawing visitors into Rome’s storied past.
However, what truly sets this site apart is its unexpected feline residents. The Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary, nestled within the ruins, is home to hundreds of stray cats who roam the ancient stones with an air of regal indifference. Their presence adds a delightful touch of whimsy to the otherwise solemn historical atmosphere. Visitors often find themselves equally charmed by the cats as by the ruins themselves, watching as they sunbathe atop temple columns or lounge amidst the remnants of history.
The sanctuary, operated by dedicated volunteers, also offers a commendable example of compassion, as it cares for and finds homes for these cats. For history enthusiasts and animal lovers alike, the Largo di Torre Argentina is a must-visit destination in Rome, offering a unique and unforgettable blend of antiquity and...
Read moreIf you're visiting Rome, a trip to Largo di Torre Argentina is a must. This historic square is filled with ancient ruins and rich history, making it a fascinating place to visit.
The most notable feature of Largo di Torre Argentina is the ancient Roman temple ruins that are located in the center of the square. Walking among the ruins is like stepping back in time, and the sense of history and awe is palpable.
In addition to the ruins, Largo di Torre Argentina is also home to a cat sanctuary, which is an unexpected and delightful surprise. The sanctuary is run by volunteers who care for the cats and keep the area clean and well-maintained. The cats are friendly and used to visitors, and it's a joy to watch them play and interact with each other.
The square itself is also quite charming, with beautiful architecture and plenty of outdoor seating at the surrounding cafes and restaurants. It's a great place to take a break and enjoy a coffee or a gelato while taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
Overall, Largo di Torre Argentina is a must-visit destination in Rome. The combination of ancient ruins, cat sanctuary, and charming surroundings make it a unique and memorable experience that you won't...
Read moreThis place is a completely unique experience to anything else in Rome. It’s like we’ve only scratched the surface of what lies around the area - it feels like an ongoing investigation, and makes you feel curious about any potential discoveries. Highly recommend this for a different experience, and to marvel at monuments built BC.
5 euro entry if you want to go down, but to be honest you can see it just as well from the street. The only reason I’d recommend going down is if you want to pet the cats :) To buy tickets, go to the tower in the square. It’s quite empty so no need to do anything in advance. Go down to see an impressive image recreating what the area might have looked like.
be warned that because it’s a work in progress and the artefacts are so old, a lot of the information is guesswork.
finally, would recommend this purely for the cats! There are 100s of cats that live here and are protected by law. They truly have made this place home, some are welcoming and want to be pampered by strangers while others just hang around and are cute to watch from afar. They are well fed, taken care of and supported by the city as a sanctuary of their own amongst...
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