Stray cats awarded heritage status in Rome

Rome's council has declared 150 cats which prowl the archaeological ruins of Torre Argentina part of the city's biocultural heritage.

The council has committed itself to preserving them.

In a statement, it said they have a "well established and ancient bond with the city".

Il Nuovo website reports they are currently fed and cared for by voluntary associations.

The council says it will help the volunteers financially to make sure the cats are properly looked after.