Cats Galore! and other Rome, Italy Local Custom Tips

Cat & The Arch of Constantine

As I am a real cat lover, I always notice when a cat is around. I was so aware of the numerous cats in Rome.

You've probably already heard that cats scatter to every corner and hidden niche in the Colosseum. The cats in the Colosseum are rather wild, but just as the Italians take care of their children, they also take care of the animals, domesticated or wild.Even though many of the cats I saw were strays, they seemed well fed and clean.

The photo shows a contented cat sunning itself on the steps that lead to the Arch of Constantine.

This arch, sometimes referred to as The Triumphal Arch, was built a short time before Constantine moved the capital of the Empire to Byzantium. Most historians think that it was built to celebrate Constantine's victory at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge. The relief work on this structure is amazing. The cat was remarkable, too!

Note: Even though cats are numerous in Rome, it's the Dogs who Rule in Rome!

Click on the photo to see the cat better.

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Local Customs: Dog's Rule in Rome

Tip Rating:

Updated by deecat

on May 11, 2005

Man With His "Leashless" Dog in

Rome

In Rome, and all over Italy, dogs rule.

We seldom saw dogs on leashes as one does in the USA (most cities have an ordinance that animals must be on leashes).

The interesting part is that the dogs are quite well behaved. I never saw dogs on leashes; yet, they stayed near their owners. In some places where we were eating dinner (nice places), the local would bring his/her dog with. Each time I observed this, the dog would lie under the table and bother no one or no object.

It fascinated me and surprised me as well. Once again, because of city ordinances and health departments, dogs are not allowed in restaurants in the USA unless the dog is leading a blind person.

I would be interested in knowing how the dogs are trained to be so calm and obedient.

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Other Contact: Everywhere; keep your eyes open

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How To: Open Affection is Commonplace

Tip Rating:

Updated by deecat

on May 11, 2005

Italian Lovers

The Italians are lovers...they are openly affectionate and never embarrassed about their affectionate ways.

Everywhere we went, we saw couples kissing, holding hands, walking arm in arm. They are not disgustingly passionate, just affectionate.

I also like the fact that the men meet and kiss cheeks. In the USA men are so wrapped up in their image that they seldom even touch another man unless in a contact sport or in a fight!

I realize that Italian men are very concerned about being macho, so it took me by surprise to see them so affectionate with other males. I'm impressed and wish that attitude were more prevelant in America. I personally feel that it is a healthy attitude.

Click the photos to see 3 different "affectionate" situations.

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Other Contact: Just Look Around

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Local Customs: Gelateria: A One-Stop Shop in Rome

Tip Rating:

Updated by deecat

on May 11, 2005

Gelateria in Rome