Couple builds animal sanctuary on land scarred by 2022 wildfire

After the 2022 wildfire that devastated Colmeias and Memória, Sueli Alves and Carlos Rosete bought land in Serra do Branco and built the Quinta Pedagógica da Aldeia do Branco. Opened in June 2024, it now hosts nearly 150 rescued and rehabilitated animals, many with stories of neglect or injury, alongside horse rides, picnic areas and school visits. Monthly costs, including food and veterinary care, reach around three thousand euros. The couple, still repairing storm damage to parts of the site, plan to expand with a new building and are hosting an open family day on 8 August.