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Central Portugal is often referred to as the 'Green Heart' of the country. This is possibly because of the abundance of Pine and Eucalyptus forests and lush green valleys.
The area of Central Portugal roughly covers the following districts - Coimbra, Santarem, Aveiro, Leiria, Portalegre, Castelo Branco, Viseu and Guarda. |
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The Rios Zezęre and Mondego, two of Portugal's major rivers, start and finish within the boundaries of the region and help to keep it green even in the height of summer. The countryside varies dramatically - from the sandy beaches of the Silver and Lisbon Coast to the rugged peaks of the Serra da Estrela mountains. |
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Central Portugal has a diverse mix of flora and fauna. There are a range of wild flowers, shrub species and trees including lilies, orchids, curry plant and the evergreen
Cork Oak trees. The country's habitats are a shelter for many mammals such as |
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wolves, the illusive and
endangered
Iberian Lynx, wild cats, foxes, wild boar, goat, deer, hares and even mongoose.
The region is not only rich in
natural beauty but many made monuments as well. There are numerous buildings of historical importance within the Central Portugal including an impressive number of castles, churches. Two buildings not to be missed are the UNESCO listed Convento do Cristo at Tomar and the historic University at Coimbra. |
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