Alentejo region, Administrative region in south-central Portugal.
Alentejo is a region spanning south-central Portugal with rolling hills, cork oak forests, and a long Atlantic coastline. The landscape shifts between farmland, woodland, and coastal stretches dotted with small villages and towns.
The region contains ancient megalithic monuments and Roman structures from early settlement periods. Medieval castles and fortifications later developed as strategic positions along the Spanish border.
Local communities continue cork harvesting and shepherding as part of daily life, while Cante Alentejano, a polyphonic singing style, remains present at local gatherings and celebrations.
The Mediterranean climate brings hot summers and mild winters, with spring and autumn offering the best conditions for hiking and visiting heritage sites. Visitors will find good infrastructure with accommodations, restaurants, and easy access to various outdoor activities throughout the region.
The area produces the majority of Portuguese cork, and these ancient cork oak forests support numerous protected bird and mammal species. Cork production has shaped the landscape and local livelihoods for centuries.
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