The tenders for the allocation of exploration rights over properties at the eight railway stations were launched in a ceremony in Alcácer do Sal (Setúbal), presided over by the Secretary of State for Tourism, Commerce and Services, Nuno Fazenda.

In a statement sent to Lusa agency, the Ministry of Economy and the Sea revealed that interested parties can submit their applications until September 12, 2024.

The six railway stations covered in the district of Beja are those of Baleizão, Quintos and Ponte do Guadiana (all in the municipality of Beja), Casével (in the municipality of Castro Verde) and those of Pias and Serpa/Brinches (in the municipality of Serpa).

The competitions, launched within the scope of the protocol established between Fundo Revive Natureza and IP Património, also cover the stations of Pavia and Cabeção, both in the municipality of Mora (Évora).

According to the ministry, “these old railway stations will be subject to requalification, promoting regional and local development, through new uses for tourist purposes”.

“Revive Natureza constitutes an opportunity for these stations and other properties, vacant for decades, to be subject to requalification”, highlighted Secretary of State Nuno Fazenda, quoted in the statement.

The official also said that “this is an important instrument for valuing built and natural heritage, revitalizing, through tourism, abandoned and deteriorating public heritage”.

Managed by TF Turismo Fundos - SGOIC, S.A., the Revive Natureza Fund aims to requalify public properties “for tourist or other related purposes, generating economic impact in the locality or region where they are located”.