About Proença-a-Nova

Proença-a-Nova is a municipality in the district of Castelo Branco, Portugal. The population in 2011 was 19,870, in an area of 362.58 km². The town of Proença-a-Nova has a population of 3,731. The municipality includes several small towns and villages, the largest being Proença-a-Nova, Sertã and Vila Nova da Baronia. The municipality is bordered on the north by the municipality of Fundão, on the east by the municipality of Penamacor, on the south by the municipality of Castelo Branco and on the west by the municipality of Vila Nova da Barquinha. The present mayor is Luís Miguel da Silva Rodrigues, elected by the Socialist Party. The municipal holiday is September 8. The economy of the municipality is based on agriculture, livestock, industry and tourism. The industry is based on food ( canned meat, olive oil and honey ), wood ( furniture ) and cork ( processing and export ). Proença-a-Nova has a rich heritage, with many archaeological sites, castles and museums. The municipality is home to the Natural Park of Serra da Estrela, the largest protected area in Portugal. The park offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, horse riding and bird watching.