CYPRUS CAT CULTURE
THE EASTERN WILDCAT
Ancient writings indicate that Cyprus has had a long association with cats, that goes back many thousands of years. Archaeological data recovered from the Neolithic site of Shillourokambos, supports these writings. A grave containing decorative artefacts and the remains of an eastern wildcat buried alongside a human has been excavated. This important find, which dates back to 7,500 BC, on an island separated from the mainland before human habitation, indicates that humans introduced these cats to the island. Further examination revealed a small-dedicated grave for the wildcat, and this is the earliest known cat grave in the world.
SAINT HELENE OF CONSTANTINOPLE
The debate now rages on about whether these ancient wildcats are related to Cyprus’s modern day feline incarnations. Many experts have perused the subject and it remains as an open subject of debate. A certainty is that Cyprus cats today are linked to the actions of Saint Helene of Constantinople. The earliest known written record of cats on Cyprus refers to the story of how Saint Helene of Constantinople shipped hundreds of cats to Cyprus in the year 328.
SAINT NICHOLAS OF THE CATS MONASTERY
The early part of the fourth century, saw the founding of a monastery near Akrotiri in Limassol. The monastery fared well at the beginning, but then suffered a drought that lasted for 37 years. The drought meant that venomous snakes had infested the area and had besieged the monastery. A call for aid was sent and Saint Helene of Constantinople, who was a patron of the monastery, promptly answered. She sent two boatloads of cats to the monastery. Once released into the wild, the cats went to work and began hunting the snake population. It is said that the monastery had two bells. One was used to call the cats to meals and the other to send them into the fields to hunt the snakes. Once the snakes where eradicated, the monastery became known as the Monastery of Saint Nicholas of the Cats. The cats have been living at the monastery ever since and it is said that if they ever left, then the snakes would return.
ANIMAL LOVERS
Today, the Monastery of Saint Nicolas of the Cats is not only a peaceful retreat for those seeking spiritual reflection, but also a popular place for animal enthusiasts and cat lovers to visit. The monastery maintains a thriving cat population. The cats freely roam the monastery grounds. People often visit the monastery, that considers its feline friends as a beloved and integral part of its identity. The monastery itself is set in beautiful gardens, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors often explore the monastery’s chapel, which has beautiful frescoes and religious icons. The monastery also has a small museum that houses a collection of religious artefacts and historical items.
