The city of Istanbul is home to one of the most beloved and renowned art museums in the world. The Istanbul Modern Art Museum has been showcasing works from around the world for more than a century and is considered an essential destination for art lovers throughout the world. However, what many visitors may not know is that this iconic museum also has a unique and unexpected feature: nearly 70 cats living in it!
The cats have been part of the museum since its founding in 2004, when a group of stray cats moved into the building after it was vacated by its previous tenants. The museum’s staff noticed the cats and decided to take them in, providing them with food and shelter within the building. As word spread about their new home, more cats started coming to live in the museum, and soon there were dozens of cats living within its walls.
The cats are a beloved part of Istanbul Modern Art Museum and are treated as if they were members of staff. They wander freely throughout the building, often stopping to nap on one of the exhibits or observe visitors as they explore the galleries. Visitors are welcome to interact with them, but are asked to be mindful that these are wild animals that may be uncomfortable with sudden movements or loud noises.
The cats have become so popular that visitors can even purchase souvenirs featuring their likenesses at gift shops around Istanbul. In addition, there is even an official website dedicated to them which includes photographs and videos of their daily activities at the museum. This unique feature has become one of Istanbul Modern Art Museum’s defining characteristics, making it an even more special destination for art lovers across the globe.
Conclusion: What started out as a group of stray cats has evolved into one of Istanbul Modern Art Museum’s defining features–a unique home for nearly 70 beloved felines who roam freely throughout this iconic facility. This special feature makes this museum even more special for art lovers from around the world who come to experience its incredible exhibits while also taking time to interact with these amazing creatures.