Last Updated on 28 October 2023 by Vanessa
According to the cat rescue organization Animalica, the Campo del Príncipe is home to the Granada’s largest population of community cats. As soon as I learned about their existence, I wanted to pay them a visit and spend some time in their company. But what are the reasons behind their presence? And who takes care of these cats?
A short history of Granada’s Campo del Príncipe
Campo del Príncipe has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. This picturesque square was constructed in 1497 to commemorate a momentous event in Spanish royalty.
It was originally established to celebrate the wedding of Prince Juan and Margarita of Austria, a union of great significance at the time. The square was designed as a testament to the grandeur of the occasion and served as a place for festivities and gatherings.
However, long before it became a royal celebration ground, Campo del Príncipe had a different purpose. It was built upon the remains of an old Muslim cemetery, reflecting the rich tapestry of Granada’s cultural history.
The Campo del Príncipe today
Today, Campo del Príncipe has become the place where both locals and tourists go to to unwind. They relax on a bench at the square, or they savor drinks and tapas at the surrounding restaurants and bars, all the while enjoying the sight of the numerous cats and kittens.
Some options for food and drinks in the area are:
- La Esquinita
- La Ninfa
- Bar Los Altromuses
- Casa Luthier
- Bar Momentos
The Campo del Príncipe is also popular with parents and their young children, as there is a recreational area with swings, slides, and rocking horses.
The community cats of Granada’s Campo del Príncipe
The cats of Granada’s Campo del Príncipe are a beloved part of the local culture.
However, I would have never heard of these cats if it weren’t if it weren’t for a volunteer of the Animalica animal welfare organization whom I met at Málaga Airport and who was so kind to offer me a drive to Granada.
At first, it may be hard to spot the cats, especially if you’re unaware of the Campo’s feline inhabitants.
The cats are adept at blending into the background and are skilled at concealing themselves from tourists.
Yet, as you sit on one of the benches for a while or enjoy a drink at the surrounding establishments, you’ll soon discover that these charming creatures are everywhere. It becomes impossible not to notice entire clowders of felines going about their day.
The cat colonies of Campo del Príncipe have originally established themselves here primarily because of the availability of food.
However, even though the majority of the cats hang out near the restaurants and bars, they seem to know they are not allowed to ask patrons for leftovers. Instead, they maintain a respectful distance, perfectly content in their chosen slice of the Campo.
They especially come out of their hiding places once the volunteers arrive with cat food. This happens twice daily, and its a joy to behold.
You will rarely see a cat in the middle of the Campo del Príncipe, except for that rare adventurous feline that loves to venture outside of his comfort zone.
Animal welfare in Granada
The community cats of Granada are all protected and fed on a daily basis by a number of volunteers.
Unfortunately, the animal protectors often receive threats of fines for feeding stray animals, even though it involves nourishing living beings.
To prevent the feline population from growing uncontrollably, the organization also plays a pivotal role in trapping, spaying, and neutering these cats. This humane approach to population management ensures that the cats’ numbers remain stable and that they receive the care they deserve.
However, here too, the animal welfare volunteers feel isolated in this effort.
There is no type of assistance or grant available for cases of animals abandoned on the streets. The cost of spaying or neutering falls on the shoulders of these associations.
Spaying a cat costs around 50 euros on average, while neutering can go up to 100 euros, although veterinarians usually give a discount for associations or street cats.
Walk up to the Alhambra
From Campo del Príncipe, you can easily walk up to the Alhambra where more cats will be waiting for you.
To walk from Campo del Príncipe to the Alhambra, follow these step-by-step directions:
- Starting at Campo del Príncipe, head southeast on Plaza del Campillo del Marqués toward Calle Solarillo de Gracia.
- Turn right onto Cuesta Gomérez, which is a steep, winding road that will lead you uphill toward the Alhambra.
- Continue on Cuesta Gomérez as it takes you through a charming historic neighborhood.
- Along the way, you’ll pass by shops and restaurants, and you’ll notice the Alhambra looming in the distance.
- Keep walking up Cuesta Gomérez until you reach the Alhambra entrance. You’ll see signs indicating the ticket offices, main entrance, and visitor information points.
The walking distance from Campo del Príncipe to the Alhambra is approximately 1.5 to 2 kilometers (0.93 to 1.24 miles).
Conclusion – Is Campo del Príncipe worth visiting?
Campo del Príncipe isn’t your typical tourist hotspot; in fact, most international visitors stumble upon it by accident. As a result, this corner of Granada exudes an unmistakable authenticity. Its ambiance is laid-back, and the affordability of its offerings remains untouched by tourist inflation.
While it may not be your go-to destination in Granada, it’s a hidden gem for a meal if you happen to be in the vicinity.
However, there’s one special reason to consider a visit – the cats.
If the furry residents of Campo del Príncipe capture your heart, please consider supporting the local animal welfare organizations dedicated to caring for Granada’s street cats. These unfortunate animals typically endure an average lifespan of merely two years, a stark contrast to their domestic counterparts that often enjoy 10 to 15 years more. They are in desperate need of our assistance.
Text and photos by Vanessa Morgan.
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