Cats in the Hermitage.

At the parking lot near the Hermitage in st Peterburg there in an unusual road sign. It says cats crossing. It was introduced to protect the cats living on the territory. The Hermitage cats have become an attention of their own and a special attraction for young visitors. The museum director keeps saying that the cats interest journalists even more than the exhibits them selves! He is right. Even the ravens of the Tower of London could envy the fame of the Hermitage cats. Firstly, each one has a passport and a personal plate and a collar. Secondly, they undergo regular vet check-ups. Their meals are cooked in a special kitchen in the besement. Finally, they are welcomed on the annual Cats' Day celebrated in May and are honorable guests there. Kindly called the herimcs, the cats feel at home inside the museum.
Today the museum covers the cats' living expenses. Also, there are sponsore eager to take part. On Cats' Day visitors are allowed into the basement to watch the cats' everyday life. Some cats are available for adoption and people are happy to take them home as a symbol of the Hermitage.