THE EASTERN WILDCAT
Ancient writings indicate that Cyprus has had a long association with cats. This goes back many thousands of years. Archaeological data recovered from the Neolithic site of SHILLOUROKAMBOS supports these writings. Excavations have revealed a grave containing decorative artefacts and the remains of an eastern wildcat buried alongside a human. 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 making it the earliest known cat grave in the world.
AN ISLAND OF CATS
Cyprus, also known as the ‘island of cats’ in some circles, is an ideal breeding ground for the feline species. This is mainly due to the island’s mild climate. Since their introduction to the island centuries ago, the cat population has thrived. Current estimates put the cat population at around 1.5 million. This means that the cat population far outnumbers its human inhabitants on the island.Â
THE MONASTERY OF SAINT NICHOLAS OF THE CATS
The early part of the fourth century saw the founding of the Saint Nicholas Monastery. Located in the Akrotiri Peninsula of Limassol, the monastery fared well, but then suffered a serious drought, lasting 37 years.Â
IDEAL FOR VENOMOUS SNAKES
The drought meant that venomous snakes had infested the area. Now besieged, the monastery issued a call for immediate aid. SAINT HELENE OF CONSTANTINOPLE, who was a patron of the monastery, promptly answered. She sent hundreds of cats by boat to the monastery, and once released into the wild, they went to work hunting the snake population.Â
TWO BELLS
It is said that the monastery had two bells, one was used to call the cats into the monastery, whilst the other sent them into the fields to hunt the snakes. Once the snakes were eradicated, the monastery became known as THE MONASTERY OF SAINT NICHOLAS OF THE CATS. Hundreds of cats have been living ever since. It is said that if they ever left, then the snakes would soon return.
SAINT HELENE OF CONSTANTINOPLE
Several experts believe that these ancient wildcats are the ancestors of Cyprus’s modern-day feline incarnations. However, some sceptics disagree. Many experts still peruse the subject, and as the debate rages on, it remains an open subject. A certainty is that CYPRUS CATS today are linked to the actions of SAINT HELENE OF CONSTANTINOPLE. The earliest known written record of cats in Cyprus refers to the story of how SAINT HELENE OF CONSTANTINOPLE shipped hundreds of them to Cyprus in the year 328.
A CAT SANCTUARYÂ
Today, THE MONASTERY OF SAINT NICHOLAS OF THE CATS considers its cats a beloved and integral part of its identity. It is a peaceful retreat for those seeking spiritual reflection and is also a popular place for animal enthusiasts and cat lovers to visit. The monastery maintains a thriving cat population and cats freely roam the monastery grounds. 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.
AN ISLAND OF CAT LOVERS
Although the thriving cat population on the island is generally well looked after, some of its stray cats face several daily challenges. These challenges incude the onset of disease and injuries from territorial disputes. Traffic accidents also are a major factor that plays a role in their well-being. Several organisations and shelters acknowledge this by providing much-needed help when and where necessary. Generous locals, as well as several visitors on the island, often embrace these cats, contributing daily to their welfare by feeding and looking after them.
A COMMON HISTORY
Cats serve as a constant reminder of the positive historical role that they played on the island. Their existance also represents the common history that they share with their Cypriot counterparts. Overlall, the cats of Cyprus serve as a tribute to the long-standing bond that exists between most Cypriots and their feline friends.
