A DEEPLY RESPECTED ANIMAL
A SYMBOL OF HARD WORK
For centuries, the Cypriot donkey has been the most indispensable and respected domestic animal on the island. The Cypriot donkey was not only a symbol of hard work, but for a time, was the island’s only means of transport. It was also a status symbol, much like a car is today, and every village farmer had one.
A DIMINISHING ROLE
The advancement of technology meant that the donkey’s role in Cypriot society would drastically diminish. New modern farming techniques, which included new mechanised systems, made the role of this domestic working animal redundant. Their transport role also became untenable after the arrival of MOTORISED VEHICLES.
A NEW ATTRACTION
The advent of modern tourism meant that the Cypriot donkey soon became somewhat of a tourist attraction as opposed to a working domestic animal. This meant that their numbers soon dropped sharply, and in 2008, they were officially declared endangered. Cypriot donkeys, as a result, can only be found in dedicated donkey farms today. These sanctuaries also form part of the island’s ongoing conservation program. Donkey rescue work in Cyprus is often carried out by small volunteer groups. Some of these groups operate under the umbrella of larger animal welfare charities as part of established donkey sanctuaries.
ANIMAL SANCTUARIES & DONKEY WELFARE CENTRES
PAPHOS DISTRICT
Akamas Donkey Rescue: Based in the Akamas region of Paphos, this rescue centre focuses on rescuing and raising awareness in the greater Paphos communities.
Donkey Rescue Cyprus: Aims to rescue and rehabilitate all Cyprus donkeys in the greater Paphos region.
Paphos Donkey Sanctuary: Aims to re-home all donkeys in the greater Paphos region.
Animal Protection Organisation Paphos: Rehomes cats and dogs, as well as donkeys in the greater Paphos region.
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Argonaftis Donkey Farm in Kelokedara: A dedicated donkey sanctuary based in the village of Kelokedara.
LIMASSOL DISTRICT
Limassol Donkey Welfare & Rescue: Focuses on welfare, rescue missions, and re-homing in the greater Limassol region.
Troodos Mountain Donkey Sanctuary: Focuses on working with donkeys that were used for transport historically. This organisation focuses on welfare initiatives and adoption programs.
Cyprus Donkey Protection Society: Advocates rescue initiatives across Cyprus, coordinating with other sanctuaries and volunteers.
Apesia Hills Donkey Riding Park: Based in the village of Apesia, this sanctuary focuses on donkey welfare for the greater Limassol region.
LARNACA DISTRICT
Larnaca Donkey Rescue Network: Based in the Larnaca district, this centre focuses on welfare and rescue in the greater Larnaca region.
Golden Donkeys Farm: Based in the village of Skarinou, this centre rehomes donkeys in the greater Larnaca region.
FAMAGUSTA DISTRICT
Donkey Farm Avgorou: Based in the village of Avgorou, this centre focuses on the welfare and rescue of donkeys in both the Larnaca and Famagusta regions.
