Beja
An ancient town of the Alentejo
Beja Castle - João Paulo
The abundant fertility of the Alentejo region has brought the Romans, Visigoths, Moors and Crusaders to battle over its resources. In the midst of rolling fields of wheat, corn, sunflowers and cork trees lies the city of Beja.
In the Roman era, Beja was known as Pax Julia and a collection of Roman exhibits can be viewed at the Queen Leonor regional museum in the Convent of Conception. The Queen Leonor museum also displays a collection of Visigoth artefacts in the church of St. Amaro, which dates dates back to the 5th century AD.
The wide Arabic tiled arches within the convent of conception are an example of the vestiges that remain of Moorish rule. The town was taken from the Moors in 1162 and a castle was built on remaining Roman fortifications. The castle was added to in the 16th Century with striking Manueline features and provides an excellent view of the town and the countryside surrounding Beja.
Hotels in towns and cities close to Beja
Estremoz - Antonio Sacchetti
Hotels in Estremoz
Estremoz is another country town in the midest of rolling hills. It has long been famous for its earthenware pottery and marble that is produced here. Estremoz is 93 km from Beja.....(More)
Hotels in Elvas
Elvas lies close to the border with Spain and is an old Roman town now a popular place for weddings due to its historical character and romantic aesthetic. Although Elvas is 112 km from Beja, it is well worth the making the drive as it is a beautiful journey through the Alentejo countryside.....(More)
Hotels in Evora
Evora is the major city of the Upper Alentejo region and is also a UNESCO world heritage site. The remains of a Roman temple of Diana can be found here, as well as many other examples of exceptional historical architecture. Evora is 60 km from Beja.....(More)
Hotels in Serpa
The village of Serpa lies close to the Spanish border and the historical remains of a large castle in Beja. Serpa is 27 km from Beja.....(More)
Hotels in Vila Vicosa
Vila Vicosa has an important place in the history of Portugal and contains an immense ruined castle, part Moorish, part mediaevel, on Roman foundations which offers wonderful views over the Alentejo countryside. Vila Vicosa is 92 km from Beja.........(More)