The first-ever Ukrainian museum dedicated to donkeys has opened its doors to visitors in Zalesnoye village in Crimea. Entrance to the museum is free of charge.

The museum currently features over 100 items related to donkeys, like carts, harnesses, and collars, and the organizers hope that the exposition’s collection will grow.

Those behind the museum are the owners of a local farm ‘Wonder Donkey’. According to its founder Nikolay Pomogalov, they were keen to show off the donkey’s role in different moments of life and history, including the Second World War.

“People who come to visit our farm now have an opportunity to learn more about donkeys and love it as much as our family loves these wonderful animals,” Ponogalov says.

The ‘Wonder Donkey’ farm is the first donkey farm in Ukraine. The 56 donkeys that live there take part in theatrical performances and are also used to ride tourists. Several lucky donkeys have even appeared in films.

Donkeys are very popular in Zalesnoye. A monument to the donkey was built in the village in 2008.