Cyprus cat facts for kids
The Cyprus cat is a special breed of cat. These cats are believed to have first come from ancient Egypt or Palestine. They were brought to the island of Cyprus by St. Helen. Today, many of these cats are common domestic cats that live in homes. But a large number are also feral, meaning they are not tame and live wild.
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History of Cyprus Cats
Oldest Domestic Cat Discovery
A researcher named J.-D. Vigne and his team might have found the oldest domestic cat ever. In 2004, archaeologists were digging at a Neolithic site in southern Cyprus. They found the carefully buried bones of a cat. It was placed right next to human bones and old artifacts. Experts saw that a small pit or grave had been dug on purpose. The cat's body was placed inside and quickly covered. This cat skeleton is about 4,000 years older than any known Egyptian drawings or writings about cats.
Cats and St. Helen
Cyprus cats were probably living in a Byzantine monastery way back in the fourth century. There's a legend that says St. Helen brought hundreds of cats to Cyprus. She wanted them to get rid of poisonous snakes that were taking over the monastery. The monastery even had two bells! One bell rang to call the cats for their food. The second bell rang to send the cats out into the meadows to hunt snakes. Today, only a few cats live at that monastery.
What Are Cyprus Cats Like?
Cyprus cats are very strong and athletic. They are full of energy! These cats live in both the cool mountains and the hotter areas near the sea coasts. They can easily get used to any climate or living space.
Images for kids
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Cypriot Cat at the Limassol Medieval Castle
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A domesticated Cyprus cat yawning
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Cypriot Cat wandering around Cape Greco
