Beja

A nomadic people of northern Ethiopia and eastern Sudan, including the Adabda, the Hadendoa, and the Bisharin. Most speak Cushitic languages and are descendants of peoples who have lived in the area for over 5,000 years. They became Muslims in the 13th century.

Beja

Capital of Beja district, southern Portugal; population (2001) 23,500. Industries include textiles and pottery, and there is a trade in wine, olive oil, and agricultural produce. It has Roman remains, a 14th-century castle, and a cathedral.

Beja

District of southern Portugal; area 10,277 sq km/3,968 sq mi; population (1993 est) 166,500; capital Beja. It is bordered on the west by the Atlantic Ocean, and on the east by Spain. The rivers Guadiana and Sado flow through it. There are extensive cork-oak forests.