Beja, city, southern Portugal, capital of Baixo Alentejo Province and of Beja District. Pottery, olive oil, cheese, leather goods, and cloth are produced here. Beja is the seat of a bishopric and the site of a cathedral and a 14th-century citadel. An ancient Roman city, it was originally called Pax Julia. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Beja became a Moorish stronghold. It was reconquered by Afonso I, king of Portugal, in 1162. Population (estimated) 14,800.Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2001
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