Forthcoming events
It's Grooming Day again and this time with an absolute novelty: our first InstaMeet in collaboration with IG Piemonte & Valle d'Aosta.
Join our first Instagram Contest to celebrate 10 years of opening!
The most magical and romantic event of the year is back: the second edition of "Ragliando sotto le stelle" ("Braying under the stars") is coming...
Donkeys at heart
Il Rifugio degli Asinelli was established in 2006 and is a subsidiary of The Donkey Sanctuary, UK founded in 1969 by Dr Elisabeth Svendsen MBE. It is only through her amazing devotion to donkeys and hard work that the Sanctuary grew to the international charity it is today. Over 50 million donkeys and mules exist in the world. Many need care and protection from a life of suffering and neglect, whilst others have a vital role to play in human survival and happiness; they are at the heart of everything we do here at Il Rifugio degli Asinelli.
Welcome to our family
We are delighted that you have decided to visit Il Rifugio degli Asinelli and that you share our love and compassion for donkeys and mules, such gentle and affectionate creatures. Our work is funded entirely by donations and legacy gifts. Your kindness and generosity will help us to care and protect one of the world’s most hard working and humble creatures and help enrich so many lives... for that we are truly grateful.
Latest news
Grooming Day
It's Grooming Day again and this time with an absolute novelty: our first InstaMeet in collaboration with IG Piemonte & Valle d'Aosta.
In their hooves
While on your holiday, be a responsible tourist and put yourself ‘In Their Hooves.’
Braying under the stars
The most magical and romantic event of the year is back: the second edition of "Ragliando sotto le stelle" ("Braying under the stars") is coming!
Instagram Contest "Scatti raglianti"
Join our first Instagram Contest to celebrate 10 years of opening!
Let Sole shine again
A new donkey has joined our Rifugio today: it is called Sole, Italian for Sun and, in the last two years, his life has been a continuous battle against a very serious dermatitis that disfigures him and gives him no...
Vacancy - Country Manager
The Donkey Sanctuary is an international animal welfare organisation, offering care and protection to donkeys and mules worldwide. We are working for a world where donkeys and mules live free from suffering, and their...