Cyprus considers promoting its feline population to boost tourism with historical and animal welfare focus
Cyprus, known for its abundant feline population, is exploring the potential of positioning itself as a unique cat tourism destination. Volunteer cat rescuer Christina Georgalla has proposed a development plan emphasizing Cyprus’s deep historical ties to cats, including a 9,500-year-old human-cat burial and the Monastery of St Nicholas of the Cats, which could serve as key attractions. The island’s large stray cat population, which some claim outnumbers humans, could be turned from a management issue into a tourism asset with ethical care and proper communication.
Georgalla points to international examples such as Japan’s Aoshima, Taiwan’s Houtong, and Montenegro’s Budva/Kotor, which have successfully integrated cats into their tourism identities through municipal support and neutering programs. Cyprus reportedly already has robust volunteer efforts and increasing state spending on neutering, which could underpin such a strategy. The tourism ministry has acknowledged receiving the proposal and is currently evaluating it.
The proposed approach would leverage existing infrastructure, requiring only coordination between government bodies and animal welfare groups, aiming to boost Cyprus’ tourism competitiveness while prioritizing animal welfare and cultural heritage.
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