Plains: Travel and tourism

The flat country stretches from the fertile plains of Ribatejo, bathed by the river Tagus and known for bull and horse breeding, to the wide, hot and golden landscapes of Alentejo, which occupies nearly one-third of Portugal.

Santarém, capital of Ribatejo, is a city proud of its historical past, bullfights and lively agricultural fairs. Also in this region, take a trip to Tomar, founded in 1157 by the grand-master of the Order of the Templars and celebrated for its castle and the magnificent Convent of Christ.

In Alentejo, great spaces, whitewashed villages, castles and towns bearing the legacy of the moors await the visitor.

Évora, a beautiful walled city with its Roman temple, the narrow streets of the old town and many historical sites, has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Portalegre and Arraiolos boast of its world famous tapestries, while Beja dominates the production of wheat, olives and cork.

Don't miss the small medieval towns of Monsaraz, near the border, and Marvão, perched high in an escarpment, or the splendid palace of Vila Viçosa, begun in 1501.