A Turkish border town known for its cats - in times of peace

NPR
by Emily Feng
April 1, 2026
1 min read

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Van, a Turkish border town, is known for Iranian travelers, local cuisine, and cats.

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Van, a Turkish border town near Iran, is known as a hub for Iranian travelers, its elaborate breakfasts, and its abundant cat population. The town's identity as a cultural and culinary crossroads relies on the flow of cross-border visitors during periods of relative stability. The cats have become emblematic of Van's character during peacetime, when tourism and daily life can flourish normally.

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