Istanbul, who has served a house for many civilizations for centuries, is known not only for its rich history, but also by cats, which can be found literally on every corner.
They populate almost all the corners of Istanbul, and such areas as Fatikh, Kadykei and Beyoglu have completely become symbols of their presence.
These fluffy inhabitants of the city, like tourists, are freely walking along the streets, climb onto the roofs, watch the seagulls trying to steal a piece of the simite, or patiently wait for the catch from the fishermen.
Locals and tourists often feed them, take pictures. They easily trust people, suit the affection, and after several strokes gratefully continue their way.
The color of Istanbul cats is diverse, local residents and tourists often give them affectionate nicknames, such as “tequir” (striped), “potopa” (snowball), “sarman” (red), “duman) and” smoke) and “Kemyur “(Corn).
– the historical heritage of cats in Istanbul
The historian and writer Zaffer Bilgi in an interview with Anadolu said that cats have been living in Istanbul for more than 5 centuries and during this time have become an integral part of the city.
The historian said that in the Ottoman Empire, the care of animals was not just a manifestation of kindness, but part of culture and even religious tradition.
According to Bilgi, in the Ottoman Empire under the Sultan Murade III in the 16th century the world’s first declaration of animal rights was published. This document fixed the care of cats and dogs.
Especially, during the construction of mosques and other public buildings, for starters, the costs of feeding homeless animals were provided.
In the city there was even a special profession – “Mansji”. After prayer, these people sold pieces of liver so that passers -by could feed animals.
– “Cats – a reflection of mercy and compassion”
BILGIS PAFERY recalled that not only laws and decrees took care of cats.
“kindness to animals came from the inhabitants of Istanbul themselves. There was even a saying among the people:” In Bayazid, there is never empty – there are always saints, crazy and cats’. “
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Bilgi also said that the director of the state library of Bayazid Ismail Saib Senger contained about 40 cats, and spent a third of his salary on their food.
– in Islamic culture, cats have always enjoyed a special attitude
“Cats have become part of the family, part of the city, part of his soul. They live here for so long, because they feel safe. In other cities, they are different to street animals, and in Istanbul they are simply accepted as part of life,” – Said the Bilgi.
He notes that in Islamic culture, cats have always enjoyed a special attitude. In Istanbul, they never made differences between thoroughbred and street animals- they accept everyone as equals, and concern for them has become a kind of tradition, a symbol of mercy and respect for creation.
“cats are a gift, and their presence reminds us that good and compassion are important qualities of any society,” the historian summed up.