Portugal’s last circus elephant settles into sanctuary
Julie is the first resident at a 1,000-acre sanctuary in southern Portugal, with another elephant expected from Belgium in November.
An elephant named Julie has become the first resident of Pangea’s sanctuary in Portugal’s southern Alentejo region after leaving the Víctor Hugo Cardinali circus under a voluntary agreement. Pangea said she was the final wild animal still living in a Portuguese circus. She arrived at the sanctuary in June.
The move follows Portugal’s 2018 ban on circus use of wild animals. The legislation took effect in 2024, allowing a transition period to arrange alternatives. The circus had been unable to find somewhere for Julie to go.
Caretaker Johnny Nascimento said Julie was initially shy but began showing more confidence after around one week. Sanctuary manager Ryan Hockley said she had gained around 100 kilos during just over three months there. He said she previously spent most of her time in a barn with little opportunity for exercise, but now could choose between the barn and outdoor habitats at any hour.
The 1,000-acre site spans Alandroal and Vila Viçosa and is intended to accommodate elephants from circuses, zoos and other facilities across Europe. Pangea, a UK trust, aims to expand to a capacity of 20-30 elephants. Kariba, an elephant from a Belgian circus, is expected in November. Funded by organizations and donors, the sanctuary will remain closed to the public.
