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Portugal’s First Elephant Sanctuary Welcomes Last Circus Elephant

7/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Julie, a 40-year-old elephant, became the first resident of Portugal’s Pangea Elephant Sanctuary on 2026-07-13 after the 2024 ban enforcement ended her circus work.
The 400-hectare site, Europe’s first elephant sanctuary, can house 30 elephants, provides veterinary care, and remains closed to visitors while the animals settle.
Director-general Kate Moore said Julie’s arrival is a landmark because she is Portugal’s last circus elephant and that Kariba will join after clearance.

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Story summary

Julie, a 40-year-old elephant, became the first resident of Portugal’s Pangea Elephant Sanctuary on 2026-07-13 after the 2024 ban enforcement ended her circus work.
The 400-hectare site, Europe’s first elephant sanctuary, can house 30 elephants, provides veterinary care, and remains closed to visitors while the animals settle.
Director-general Kate Moore said Julie’s arrival is a landmark because she is Portugal’s last circus elephant and that Kariba will join after clearance.