Portugal’s much-loved Alentejo will soon welcome some very special residents. At a briefing yesterday, the Presidents of Alandroal and Vila Viçosa officially announced the creation of a large-scale sanctuary for elephants - the first of its kind in Europe.

Pangea was set up to solve a practical problem. Circus bans are widespread across the EU, yet without sanctuary space, they are hard to implement. Zoos that want to rehome their resident elephants face a similar dilemma, but the lack of alternatives means that elephants can languish alone or in unsuitable conditions for years on end.

Pangea’s Managing Director, Kate Moore, said: “Elephants are deeply intelligent, sentient and social. Their needs are complex, and when those needs aren’t met, they suffer physically and psychologically. Our mission is to provide lifelong sanctuary with both specialist care and the space to live with dignity and autonomy in the most natural surroundings possible.”

The initiative has been years in the making. After a Europe-wide study, the team secured a 1,000-acre site with diverse habitat, plenty of water, privacy and Mediterranean climate. Together with an international elephant-welfare advisory group, Portuguese wildlife and veterinary authorities input into the plan, with major funding secured from the Born Free Foundation, Foundation Brigitte Bardot, Olsen Animal Trust and World Animal Protection. Phase one is now well advanced with the first barn and initial enclosure nearing completion and is expected to open in the coming months.

One of the first residents has been confirmed as Kariba, a female African elephant who will soon travel to the Alentejo from Pakawi Park in Antwerp, Belgium. The Park’s director, Tommy Pasteels, said: “We have cared for Kariba for over 13 years and she will be hugely missed, but we could not see her living alone any longer. We believe she can have the best possible quality of life at Pangea, with space to be an elephant again and the companionship of others.”

Pangea meets a Europe-wide need, but the project is undoubtedly rooted in the Alentejo, where local networks have been critical to progress. Speaking at the event, Presidente João Grilo of Alandroal said, “We very much welcome this partnership and the opportunities it brings. This is a project the Alentejo can be proud of.”

Presidente Inácio Esperança of Vila Viçosa added, “Pangea benefits not only elephants but our communities too: new jobs, business for local suppliers, training opportunities, and a point of interest that will draw visitors to the region.”

Whilst the sanctuary will not be open to the public, plans for a local Discovery Centre are underway, and those passionate about the project can “join the herd” by subscribing to Pangea’s newsletter or donating to their emergency appeal.

The Portugal News readers who make a donation have the chance to enter a prize draw for a VIP visit. T&Cs apply, please visit www.pangeatrust.org/TPNappeal for more information.