Pompeii's Cats Star in the Photo Book 'Cats of Pompeii'

The cats living in the Pompeii Archaeological Park, who have become social media stars, are the subject of the photo book 'Cats of Pompeii', published by Giunti Editore together with the park. The book is based on photographs by archaeologist and photographer Silvia Vacca. The colony numbers 40–50 animals, and the park, together with Archeogatti Onlus, ensures sterilization, veterinary care, and rehoming of the cats.

tafs uz editorial deskFirst published on tafs uz 16 October 2026 at 16:422 min readAI translation

The key facts

The photo book 'Cats of Pompeii' has been published by Giunti Editore in cooperation with the Pompeii Archaeological Park
The book is based on photographs donated to the park by archaeologist and photographer Silvia Vacca
The colony numbers 40–50 cats; they are looked after jointly with the association Archeogatti Onlus, led by Antonella Carotenuto

Pompeii's Cats — Heroes of a New Book

The cats living in the archaeological area of Pompeii, who have gained popularity on social media, have become the main heroes of the photo book 'Cats of Pompeii'. The book has been published by Giunti Editore in cooperation with the Pompeii Archaeological Park and contains stories about the everyday life of the cat colony living at the UNESCO World Heritage site.

How the Book Came About and What It Contains

The publication grew out of photographs donated to the park by archaeologist and photographer Silvia Vacca. In the images, the cats wander among domuses, gardens, and Roman streets, offering an unusual view of animals that have long become part of the Pompeian landscape. Some shots were taken during quiet hours, when the streets of the ancient city empty out.

Caring for the Colony

The park's cat colony numbers between 40 and 50 animals. Their presence is constantly monitored by a management and protection system that makes it possible to combine the animals' well-being with the preservation of the archaeological heritage and visitor safety. Video surveillance operates on the site to prevent the abandonment of animals. Thanks to cooperation with the association Archeogatti Onlus, led by Antonella Carotenuto, the park carries out sterilization campaigns, veterinary check-ups, organizes feeding of the colony, and places some cats in foster homes.

Cats and the Ancient City

The presence of cats in Pompeii is called an emblematic element of the monument's life. According to publications, ongoing archaeological research is shedding light on the relationship between humans and cats in the ancient world. The book 'Cats of Pompeii' is sold at retail points of the archaeological park and through Giunti distribution.