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All Italy Vernazza Cat Shrine

Cat Shrine

On the walking path from Monterosso to Vernazza, a small shrine dedicated to feline friends.

Vernazza, Italy

Added By
Tyler M
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Shrine to the local cat population, including faded laminated pictures of older cats   WhenInWome / Atlas Obscura User
Shrine to the local cat population, including faded laminated pictures of older cats   WhenInWome / Atlas Obscura User
One of the current residents   WhenInWome / Atlas Obscura User
  WhenInWome / Atlas Obscura User
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About

Since before the turn of the 21st century, the gem that is Cinque Terre National Park has become increasingly popular with visitors from around the world, thanks in part to recommendations from writers like Rick Steves. But one feature has avoided mention in most guides and blogs until recently.

Local cats have been a feature of these Ligurian hills almost as long as humans have lived here. In addition to the cats that prowl the streets of the five towns that make up Cinque Terre, an outdoor cat colony has flourished along the popular trail between Monterosso and Vernazza for decades. But in recent years, the human population took its relationship with local felines to the next level.

Sometime around 2014, residents created a shrine to Cinque Terre's four-footed residents, located just off the path. The shrine has been in place since at least 2014.

The shrine includes a bin of food as well as feeding instructions for visitors. Local cats tend to hang around the area to beg treats from travelers traversing the paths between the cities. 

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Shrines Hiking Trails Cats
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Added By

WhenInWome

Edited By

hzoi

  • hzoi

Published

February 6, 2023

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Cat Shrine
Vernazza, 19018
Italy
44.140433, 9.675573

Nearby Places

Doria Castle

Vernazza, Italy

miles away

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Photo of Vernazza

Vernazza

Italy

Places 4

Nearby Places

Doria Castle

Vernazza, Italy

miles away

Chapel of Santa Marta, Vernazza

Vernazza, Italy

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Monterosso al Mare, Italy

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Explore the Destination Guide

Photo of Vernazza

Vernazza

Italy

Places 4

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