When you say Largo di Torre Argentina, most people think of cats, ancient excavations or the site associated with the assassination of Julius Caesar.

But just a few steps away is one of the most important theatre buildings in Rome.

The Teatro Argentina has been operating since 1732 and is one of the oldest theatres in the city. If you're into history, opera or classic European theatre buildings, it's worth a quick stop.

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What is Teatro Argentina?

The Teatro Argentina is a historic theatre located right next to the Largo di Torre Argentina.

It was founded in the 18th century and has hosted the premieres of important operas throughout its history. For example, it was here that Rossini's famous The Barber of Seville premiered.

The ground beneath the building is also interesting.

The theatre stands above part of the original Pompey's Theatre, the site of the assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 BC.

Is it possible to go inside?

Yes, you can.

But not in an "I'll come in anytime and walk around" kind of way.

The Teatro Argentina normally functions as an active theater scene. They're held here:

• Drama
• musical performances
• opera performances
• cultural events

If you're drawn to the interior, the best option is usually to buy a ticket for a performance or follow the guided tours on offer.

Worth a stop?

Actually, it depends.

If you pass by Largo di Torre Argentina, I would definitely look up from the excavations and look here too.

But if you're short on time in Rome, I wouldn't make Teatro Argentina an absolute priority.

I personally enjoyed the ancient ruins of Largo di Torre Argentina itself much more in the area.

Admission

• free from the outside
• interior only during events or selected tours
• Tickets for performances vary depending on the current performance and range between 15 eur and 80 eur
• online tickets are recommended to be purchased 1-2 months prior to the performance at teatrodiroma.net

Largo di Torre Argentina

Below today's street level you will see the remains of four ancient temples from the Roman Republic period and part of Pompey's theatre.

It is here that one of the places most strongly associated with Julius Caesar is located.

According to historians, Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 BC in the grounds of Pompey's Theatre, which stood on this site.

For many years, the archaeological site could only be viewed from above from the sidewalks around the busy intersection.

Nowadays, you can walk right down among the excavations.

You'll see:

• the foundations of ancient temples
• parts of Pompey's original theatre
• information panels on the history of the site
• Roman cats that have lived here for decades

Yes.

The cats here are almost as famous as the excavations themselves.

There's also a long-standing cat sanctuary and volunteer organization that cares for the local population.

💡 My tip: Largo di Torre Argentina looks good in the evening. The illuminated ancient ruins in the middle of modern traffic have a special atmosphere.

Practical information

Admission

• Paid admission to the archaeological section for 7 eur
• free view from above from the surrounding walkways
• official website: sovraintendenzaroma.it

How much time to set aside

• 20-40 minutes

What to see around

Discover all the places to see in Rome.