'Monument to Lovers and Cats' in Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is home to a large stray cat population, which has become a symbol of the city. In the old town, a grand building known as the Chain Building features a subtle tribute to the local cats. The Cat's House of Icherisheher, also known as the "Monument to Lovers and Cats" or "Cats and Children," is a work of art consisting of two faux windows and sandstone sculptures. The sculptures depict a pair of children with a kitten and a trio of cats. Locals and tour guides claim that the artwork is based on a sad legend about a judge who punished his children for a cat's accident. However, this legend is likely a myth. The artwork was actually created by sculptor Tarverdi Guliyev in 1994, commissioned by renowned carpet artist Eldar Mikayilzade. Mikayilzade's designs have been featured on Azerbaijani manat banknotes. The Cat's House of Icherisheher is a monument to Baku and its beloved cats. The artwork is easy to miss, but it is a unique and interesting feature of the city's old town.