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Mediterranean's First Dolphin Refuge Set to Launch
5 Dec
Summary
- Italy's first dolphin sanctuary for former captive animals will open soon.
- The sanctuary is located off the coast of Taranto in southern Italy.
- It aims to provide a natural, supervised environment for dolphins unable to return to the wild.
The Mediterranean's first sanctuary dedicated to dolphins that have lived in captivity is slated to open off the coast of Taranto, Italy, by mid-2026. This initiative addresses the increasing demand for re-homing as marine parks across Europe close due to rising animal welfare concerns. The San Paolo Dolphin Refuge, located in the Gulf of Taranto, will provide a unique, natural yet supervised environment for these animals.
Despite its proximity to the industrially significant city of Taranto, the chosen site has undergone improvements to ensure animal health and safety. The facility boasts a main enclosure, a smaller transfer enclosure, quarantine facilities, a floating laboratory, and staff accommodation. Advanced surveillance and sensor systems will monitor the dolphins' well-being. The project, supported by private donors and European public funds, aims to house a carefully selected group of dolphins.
