On this day in 2014, the Bear Sanctuary was inaugurated in the village of Mramor, Prishtina. The Bear Sanctuary Pristina, established in 2013 through a collaborative effort involving Four Paws Austria, KFOR, the City of Prishtina, the Kosova Ministry of Environment, and the prestigious law firm Franke & Partner, is a testament to the remarkable achievements that can be accomplished through strategic partnerships.

Years of activism and devotion from local and international organizations, as well as devoted individuals, have led to the establishment of the Bear Sanctuary. Kosova, a region rich in natural beauty, has struggled to safeguard its indigenous bear species, which has faced threats from habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts.

The sanctuary initiative gathered traction via years of fundraising, teamwork, and public support, all driven by a shared vision to create a safe home for rescued bears. Experts in animal welfare, habitat design, and veterinary care were involved in the sanctuary’s creation, ensuring that it satisfies the best requirements for the bears’ well-being.

The Bear Sanctuary is home to 20 rescued bears and a lion from several restaurants.