Beja is a district in the Alentejo region of southern Portugal. It is known as the ‘Golden Plain’ for its vast corn and sunflower fields. Culture buffs will be in the element here, with a host of archaeological and architectural treasures to explore. One of the oldest excavation sites can be found at the Núcleo Museológico in Beja city. A p where ancient Roman ruins and relics are encased beneath glass floors and wall displays. Don’t miss the seaside cities of Odemira and Vila Nova de Milfontes, with their rugged rocky coastlines and crashing waves.

Upon arrival in Beja head to the Castelo de Menagem tower. This is the place where great battles were fought to defend Portugal’s borders. At 40 metres high and made entirely of marble, it is Beja’s most emblematic tower. The view from the top is unparalleled, a magnificent way to admire the city and the surrounding Alentejo countryside.

Beja is also home to the city’s symbol, which is the Convent of Nossa Senhora da Conceição. It houses the Beja Regional Museum. Here you can discover the famous story of Mariana Alcoforado. Mariana was a nun who lived here and wrote the “Portuguese Letters” in which she declared her forbidden love for a French knight. The interior is astonishing, with frescoes on the walls and ceilings, and an innumerable number of tiles laid since the 15th century.