Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Museu da Lucerna
( 2-6pm Sat & Sun)
The building - a former factory - that houses this museum is as
interesting as the beautiful collection of ancient Roman oil lamps from the 1st century that
were found in the region. It also has exhibitions.
MUSEUM
LPN Interpretative and
Environmental Centre
(League for the Protection of Nature;
www.lpn.pt
;
www.projectos.lpn.pt/birdscastroverde
;
BIRDWATCHING
9am-1pm & 2-6pm Tue-
Sat )
This environmental organisation is responsible for overseeing the protected area
(85,000 hectares) known as the steppe - the flat, grassy land that distinguishes this area -
and for implementing protection measures for the incredible steppe birds, including the
great bustard and lesser kestrels. Staff at the information office are particularly welcom-
ing; you can view displays and pick up information. This is
the
place for birdwatchers and
it is also the departure point for walks in the steppe; ask at the office. It's located around
5km northeast of Castro Verde (on E802, the main road to Beja).
Information
Turismo
( 286 328 149;
www.cm-castroverde.pt
;
9am-12.30pm & 2-5.30pm Tue-Fri, 10am-1pm & 3-6pm Sat
& Sun)
Has maps, information and a selection of local products for sale.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Beja
POP 21,600
Baixo Alentejo's principal town is easygoing, welcoming and untouristed, with a walled
centre and some beguiling sights, all of which are within an easy walk of each other; these
often follow old Roman routes. Often dismissed as Évora's 'plainer cousin', Beja has an
inferiority complex, but it shouldn't. Its inexpensive guesthouses, quaint plazas and excel-
lent eateries make it a relaxing place to stop and a very genuine Portuguese experience.
Beja is at the heart of the regional tourist area called Planície Dourada (Golden Plain) -
meaning it's surrounded by a sea of wheat fields. On Saturday there's the bonus of a tradi-
tional market, spread around the castle.
History
