The city was founded by Julius Ceasar in 48 BC and was originally named Pax Julia following the signing of the peace treaty here between the Romans and the Lusitanians.

The town later became famous as the home of the nun, Mariana Alceforado. This young nun lived in the Convento de Nossa Senhora da Conceicao in the1600s.

She fell in love with a French soldier, and on his return to France she wrote several love letters to him. In later years the translation of these letters became internationally famous as "Letters of a Portuguese Nun". The originals of these translations have never been found.

The 15th Century convent in which the nun lived is a beautiful building with a Rococo chapel and wonderful 16th and 17th Century painted tiles.

To the north of the old town is Beja Castle built in the 14th Century by Dom Dinis I on the site of a Roman fort.

Near the castle is the basilica of Santo Amaro which has a small Archeological Museum. It is one of the few surviving buildings from the period before the Moors ruled this part of Portugal. From its high position there are excellent views over the Alentejo countryside.

A walk round the narrow streets of the old quarter will reveal attractive white washed houses with iron doorways and grills.

Approximately 30 km east of Beja is the small walled town of Serpa, a typical Alentejo market town, inhabited since Celtic times.

Travelling north from Serpa, visit the Village of Pias, renowned for its red wine. Tours of the local vineyards and adega can be arranged.

Continuing north is the spa town of Moura. The thermal mineral waters of this settlement are still used today and are considered to be beneficial to anyone suffering from rheumatism.

Pousada de Beja is a magnificent building with some beautifully painted ceilings and frescos. It is an ideal place to relax after exploring this fascinating area.

The accommodation comprises 1 suite and 34 bedrooms all with private bathroom, hair dryer, bathing gowns, cable television, air conditioning, telephone, internet, safe and minibar. Facilities include lift, restaurant, bar, terrace, safe, swimming pool, tennis court, snooker and games room and parking.

Dining in Portugal is usually very good. The restaurants of the Pousada group hotels offer a variety of dishes including a selection of local and regional specialities.

Activities in the locality include fishing, shooting, horse riding, carriage tours, country walks, cruises, water sports (river and dam), hot air ballooning, micro lighting, bird watching, archery and crossbow.

This Pousada also has conference facilites.

The international airport at Faro is approximately 140 kilometers from this Pousada of Portugal.