We returned to Beja, this time with Noemi and Stefan, as an overnight stop on the way through the Alentejo. Six years ago Dan had hurt his Achilles tendon, so was unable to climb the castle tower. Nevertheless, we had seen most of the same sites as we did this year. The economy seems to have improved, as there are more renovated buildings and one large street has been converted to a pedestrian walk with triangular cloths shading the street.

We happened on the anniversary (October 1) celebration of the founding of Beja’s senior center. Seniors, aides, and facilitators were dressed in traditional costume for the event.

Note: On some devices, clicking Play Slideshow may give very small images. For larger images, click on the first (or any other) image and then arrow through for the rest of the images.