Set between the historic towns of Vila Viçosa and Alandroal in Portugal’s Alentejo region, a pioneering conservation initiative is taking shape.
Image used for illustrative purposes/Geranimo/Unsplash
By next year, elephants that have spent decades in captivity will begin arriving at a sanctuary designed to prioritise space, freedom of movement, and long term care.
The sanctuary is led by Pangea Trust, a non profit organisation registered in both the United Kingdom and Portugal. Its mission is to offer a safe and natural environment for elephants retired from circuses and zoo enclosures across Europe. Within this protected setting, the animals will be able to roam, forage, and gradually reconnect with natural behaviours under expert supervision.
Covering approximately 402 hectares of grassland and Mediterranean scrub, the site was selected for its favourable climate, low human density, and ecological suitability. Construction is already underway, with core infrastructure including barns, veterinary facilities, and open habitat zones nearing completion.
The project has received support from local and national authorities, as well as the municipalities of Alandroal and Vila Viçosa. Interest has been strong since its public launch, which drew more than 100 journalists and highlighted the sanctuary’s significance for animal welfare in Europe.
Among the first residents expected to arrive is Kariba, a female African elephant who spent over four decades moving between European zoos. Her relocation, planned for early 2026, reflects a growing shift in how captive elephants are cared for, favouring sanctuary living over traditional exhibition environments.
Once fully operational, the sanctuary aims to accommodate between 20 and 30 elephants. While it will not function as a conventional tourist attraction, limited educational visits and community engagement programmes are planned to raise awareness around elephant conservation and ethical wildlife care.
For the Alentejo region, the sanctuary represents more than a conservation milestone. Known for cork forests, vineyards, and quiet rural charm, the area is now positioning itself at the forefront of progressive wildlife protection in Europe.
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