If you’ve ever wandered through the sun-drenched streets of southern Italy, you’ve likely encountered its unofficial mascot, I call them, cats of Calabria. Yes, there are cats throughout Italy, only you’ll see more in the southern region due to less tourists.
Perched on ancient stone walls, curled up in shaded corners, or striding confidently along cobblestone alleys. To me, these feline residents are as much a part of the landscape as the olive groves and turquoise seas.
Calabria’s cats seem to embody the timeless charm of the region. Their homes are the ruins of castles, the doorsteps of pastel-colored houses, and the piazzas that echo with laughter and life. Watching them bask in the golden Mediterranean light, you can’t help but feel they hold the secrets of the ages.
Fierce, Independent, and Loved
These furry creatures are a reflection of Calabria itself—resilient, independent, and proud. While many appear to live on their own terms, it’s not uncommon to see locals offering scraps of food or a gentle pat to a passing feline. The cats, in turn, keep villages free of pests and offer companionship to those who pause long enough to earn their trust. On our last trip, September 2024, we found a friend. After leaving Zia Lina’s house, a cute little grey striped critter ran up to Geoff. He felt inclined to pick him up and I joked in Italian, “forse ha le pulici (it might have fleas)!” My family laughed and Geoff put him down. That evening, the kitty followed us to our Airbnb. The next three days, we became best friends. He would wait and surprise us each morning and evening. If we went somewhere on foot, he was by our side. We entertained the idea of smuggling him back to America.
From Farm Cats to Fishermen’s Friends
In rural areas, you’ll find cats darting between farm buildings, guardians of barns and olive presses. By the sea, they lounge near fishing boats, eagerly awaiting the day’s catch. Each town and village seems to have its own “cat ambassadors,” who add character to its narrow streets and sunlit squares.
For me, the cats of Calabria are irresistible subjects. Their striking profiles set against ancient stone, their graceful movements through vineyards and alleyways, and their playful antics offer endless opportunities to capture the essence of life in southern Italy. When one gets my attention, I snap a shot! They are a perfect reflection of the region. Known for its slow pace and deep connection to the land, the cats of Calabria are a reminder to take life as it comes. They lounge, they hunt, they observe—living simply but fully.
If you love these furry friends, maybe it’s time you find yourself wandering through Calabria’s villages. Whether they’re napping in the sun or watching the world go by with a knowing gaze, the cats of Calabria are an integral part of the charm and character of this remarkable place.
