In Rome the cats have an ancient temple all to themselves.
The site is known as Torre Argentina and was excavated under Mussolini's
re-building efforts in 1929, revealing extensive multi-level temple grounds
about 20 feet below modern street level.
Today volunteers care for approximately 250 cats. After the site was excavated, Rome's feral cats moved in immediately, as they do all over the city. The gattare, or cat ladies began feeding and caring for them.
the organization has ramped up with care for sick or wounded cats, and an
extensive spay & neuter program to try to keep the feral population in
check. Most of the permanent residents have special needs - they are blind or
missing legs or came from abusive homes.
On any given afternoon a small crowd gathers to watch the cats sunbathe on
ancient pillars and steps.
Whether the cats rule themselves
clipped from: www.boingboing.net 