Portugal's last circus elephant is set to be moved to Europe's first large-scale elephant sanctuary, developed by the Pangea Trust, an animal protection organisation.
Julie, Portugal's last circus elephant, is being prepared for transfer to Pangea’s 1,000-acre sanctuary in Alentejo, southern Portugal.
Her relocation was jointly announced by the Pangea Trust and Circo Víctor Hugo Cardinali and was reached voluntarily "in a spirit of shared commitment to Julie's welfare", a statement said.
Julie arrived in Portugal from southern Africa and joined the Cardinali circus in 1988. She was retired from performing in 2024 when Portugal's ban on the use of wild animals in circuses came fully into effect.
The circus' director, Victor Hugo Cardinali, said: "This has not been an easy decision, as she has been a member of our family for decades, but we believe it is the right decision for Julie.
"Working with Pangea on her transition to her new home was a critical factor in our deliberations."
Pangea elephant sanctuary
At Pangea's purpose-built sanctuary, Julie and the other elephants eventually living there will have space to roam and companionship, as well as a specialist team to provide care.
Julie will join Kariba, another female African elephant of a similar age, at Pangea. Kariba is currently living alone at a zoo in Belgium and is due to be transferred soon.
“Many circuses and some zoos in Europe are reaching the point – through changing legislation, the loss of a companion, or simply a decision to move on – where keeping elephants is no longer possible or appropriate," said Kate Moore, Pangea's managing director.
"Working in partnership with owners to find the right solution is central to how we operate, as it has been with the Circo Víctor Hugo Cardinali. Elephant relocations are complex, and their continued involvement is invaluable."
Pangea’s veterinary team are carrying out the necessary health assessments and working with Julie's current carers to prepare her for the move.
