Last Updated on 15 May 2025 by Vanessa
During my recent trip to Rome, I stumbled upon some really cool postcards that depict the cats in the city. These postcards show our feline friends in famous places like St. Peter’s Square and the Colosseum. They truly make some of the best souvenirs one can find in Italy. The person behind these postcards is Giancarlo Gasponi, a well-known photographer and the author of several photo books. Let’s have a look at some of these cat-filled postcards hat capture the essence of Rome’s history, art, and culture.
Giancarlo Gasponi’s postcards of cats in Rome
Postcard #1: St. Peter’s Square (Piazza San Pietro)
One of the postcards I discovered features a cat against the backdrop of St. Peter’s Square (Piazza San Pietro, in Italian) in Vatican City.
St. Peter’s Square was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century to be a grand entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica, the biggest Catholic church in the world. The square is famous for its stunning architecture, ancient obelisk, and the famous colonnade that surrounds it. Many travelers consider it a must-see destination.
Postcard #2: Royal Forum (Forum Romanum)
The second postcard I found has two cats posing in front of the Roman Forum.
The Forum used to be the center of the Roman Empire and is full of majestic ruins and history, showing how Rome’s legacy has lasted. Gasponi’s clever composition mixes the timeless appeal of the Roman Forum with the charming cats, creating a cool blend of ancient and modern.
Postcard #3: Castle of the Holy Angel (Castel Sant’Angelo)
A regal cat exudes an air of tranquility as it poses in front of the magnificent Castle of the Holy Angel aka Castel Sant’Angelo—a symbol of Rome’s imperial grandeur.
Originally, it was built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum in the 2nd century. Over time, it turned into a fortified castle, a papal residence, and now, a museum.
Postcard #4: Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità)
The mysterious Mouth of Truth, also known as Bocca della Verità, is believed to grasp the hand of anyone telling a lie.
This stone mask dates back to ancient times and is believed to have originated as a fancy drain cover in the Temple of Hercules Victor. Over the years, it gained a mystical reputation and became a famous tourist spot in Rome.
The Bocca della Verità isn’t just famous for its history; it also made a memorable appearance in the classic film Roman Holiday in 1953, adding to its allure and further solidifying its place in popular culture.
Postcard #5: Spanish Steps (Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti)
The iconic Spanish Steps, or Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti in Italian, are the widest staircase in Europe. Serving as a picturesque link between the Piazza Trinità dei Monti and the Piazza di Spagna, these 135 steps owe their name to the nearby Spanish Embassy to the Holy See.
The steps, designed by architects Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi, are grand and elegant, making them a lasting symbol of Rome’s architecture.
Postcard #6: Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi)
Near the famed Trevi Fountain, a charismatic feline model strikes a pose, effortlessly capturing the attention of passersby.
This iconic fountain, also known as Fontana di Trevi in Italian, is not only a masterpiece of Baroque artistry but also a symbol of romance, immortalized in cinematic history. If you’ve watched the classic film La Dolce Vita, the image of Anita Ekberg wading into the Trevi Fountain as Marcello Mastroianni pursues her is likely etched in your memory.
The Trevi Fountain’s grandeur and allure are unparalleled, making it one of the most famous fountains in the world.
Designed by architect Nicola Salvi, the fountain depicts Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, surrounded by mythical sea creatures. Its magnificent sculptural details and cascading waters make that visitors are captivated by its beauty.
Tossing coins into the Trevi Fountain is a popular tradition that is believed to bring good luck and ensure a return to Rome.
Postcard #7: Colosseum
In front of the grand Colosseum, a cat confidently claims its territory.
This iconic amphitheater, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It hosted legendary gladiator fights, theatrical spectacles, and lively public gatherings.
The Colosseum is a beloved symbol of Rome and draws millions of visitors each year. People come to see its magnificent architecture and immerse themselves into the stories of ancient times.
Read more: The untold story of Rome’s 200+ Colosseum cats.
About photographer Giancarlo Gasponi
Giancarlo Gasponi was born and raised in Rome.
He is a photographer and author dedicated to capturing his beloved city’s essence. His passion for photography and profound understanding of Rome’s art and history shine through in his many photo books. Through his lens, Gasponi masterfully conveys the richness of Rome’s past and present, making him a revered figure in his domain.
Gasponi’s most famous books include:
Rome Revealed: Unveiling the Soul of the Eternal City
In his book Rome Revealed, Gasponi provides a comprehensive exploration of Rome’s iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and bustling streets. Through a series of breathtaking photos, he invites readers on a visual journey, uncovering the layers of history that permeate every corner of the city. From the grandeur of the Colosseum to the tranquility of Vatican City, Gasponi captures the diverse moods and architectural splendor that define Rome.
Rome. Water and Stone: Embracing Rome’s Aquatic Heritage
In Rome. Water and Stone, Gasponi highlights the city’s relationship with water and its profound impact on its character. Rome is indeed often referred to as the “City of Fountains” and boasts an impressive array of aqueducts, ancient baths, and ornate water features. Gasponi’s images immerse us in the aquatic wonders of Rome.
Portrait Of Rome: A Captivating Glimpse into Roman Life
Gasponi’s book Portrait Of Rome delves into the lives of the people who call the city home. Through candid and intimate photographs, he captures the essence of Roman life, showcasing the diverse personalities, traditions, and daily routines. Gasponi’s unique ability to capture fleeting moments and genuine emotions allows us to connect with the human side of Rome, beyond its iconic landmarks.
Rome. Fascination Of Art and History: A Celebration of Rome’s Cultural Heritage
In his book Rome. Fascination Of Art and History, Gasponi pays homage to Rome’s rich artistic and historical legacy. From Renaissance masterpieces to ancient ruins, the city serves as a living museum of human creativity and ingenuity. Gasponi’s photographs enable us to appreciate the details of sculptures, paintings, and architectural marvels, deepening our understanding of Rome’s artistic heritage.
English version / version française
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