It seems that you cannot go two feet in Tangier without encountering a cat. There are a multitude and variety of them. While Tangier itself isn't the source of ancient feline mythology, its abundant street cats embody a deep, widespread reverence rooted in ancient traditions, especially an Islamic respect for felines (linked to the Prophet Muhammad) and broader North African/Egyptian veneration (like Bastet), making Tangier a modern-day living testament to cats as protectors, blessings, and symbols of independence and grace, woven into the city's mysterious allure.

Tangier's cats are seen as guardians, almost spiritual entities, fitting into a cultural tapestry where felines are sacred, like the goddess, Bast, in the Black Panther movies.

Many countries consider cats to be sacred. Egypt, Morocco, Japan, etc. They represent good fortune, joy, protection, spirituality and more. They are even believed to guide one to the afterlife. Not all cats, I would imagine. I can’t see Garfield leaving his lasagna alone that much time. 

Cats weren’t on my must see list until I went to Tangier. There you will find the cutest, best behaved, well-treated strays you have ever encountered. 

In short, the cats of Tangier are not just cats; they are living myths, embodying divine protection and ancient reverence in a city that itself feels outside of time. They connect modern Morocco to millennia of feline folklore.