Largo di Torre Argentina is known in history as the place where Roman Emperor Julius Caesar was assassinated by members of the Senate in 44 B.C. However, today, it’s famous for a different reason – it’s become a haven for cats. Welcome to Italy’s Colonia Felina Di Torre Argentina, also known as the ‘Colony of Cats.’
A Haven Among Ancient Ruins
After the ruins of Largo di Torre Argentina were discovered in 1929 during Benito Mussolini’s redevelopment of Rome, it became a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. However, by the end of the 1920s, something unexpected happened – dozens of stray cats began congregating in the area, transforming it into an unusual shelter.
Gattare and the Colonia Felina Sanctuary
Today, a group of volunteer cat lovers known as “gattare” feed and care for the cats who call the ancient ruins their home. However, the responsibility for these feline residents was later taken over by the Colonia Felina sanctuary, which was established near the ruins in 1994. The sanctuary plays a crucial role in spaying and neutering to control the cat population in the area.
To date, the Colonia Felina sanctuary has spayed and neutered over 58,000 cats, finding forever homes for 125 strays every year. Approximately 250 cats are believed to be currently wandering the grounds of Largo di Torre Argentina.
A Diverse Feline Community
The cats of Colonia Felina come from various backgrounds. Some have disabilities, such as missing limbs or impaired eyesight. Those with special needs or elderly cats are housed separately in a dedicated location, away from the main population.
With the help of the sanctuary, all the cats receive the necessary food and medical care they need. Visitors may not have direct access to the ruins of Torre Argentina, but they can still observe and admire the feline residents from a distance.
A Sanctuary for Cat Lovers
Apart from the ruins, there is a separate facility nearby the Colonia Felina sanctuary where cat lovers can meet the furry residents and explore the gift shop filled with souvenirs. The organization also facilitates adoptions, helping more cats find loving homes.
Controversy and Support
While the presence of cats amidst these thousands-year-old structures brings joy to visitors, some archaeologists argue that their presence could potentially harm the temples over time. They have called for the closure of the cat sanctuary to protect the fragile state of the ruins. However, this proposition has faced resistance from residents who collected 30,000 signatures in support of keeping the sanctuary open.