The municipality of Avis hosted, over the past weekend, a group of 18 young, newly graduated doctors. The visit is part of the second phase of the initiative “Vem conhecer. Fica para Cuidar.” (Come and See. Stay to Care.), promoted by the Local Health Unit of Alto Alentejo (ULSAALE) and the Intermunicipal Community of Alto Alentejo (CIMAA), in collaboration with the Municipalities of Alter do Chão and Avis.
The program, dedicated to showcasing the region, began in Alter do Chão on the 9th and extended to Avis on the 10th and 11th. In Avis, the group was welcomed at the Municipal Library José Saramago for a welcome session. This was followed by a visit to the Avis Health Center, aiming to present the facilities, the working conditions for healthcare professionals at ULSAALE, and incentives for doctors to settle in the region.
The delegation also visited Aldeia Velha, where they participated in a “Safari in the montado” (oak forest) at Monte Novo, exploring the landscape, fauna, and flora at sunset. The experience included a tasting of Rovisco Garcia olive oil and wines. The first day in Avis concluded with a dinner featuring regional flavors at the restaurant “À da Maria”.
The second day in Avis started in Ervedal with a visit to the Fundação Arquivo Paes Teles (Paes Teles Archive Foundation), dedicated to the legacy of Mário Saa. The visitors also made a brief stop at the Ervedal bridge.
In Avis, the young doctors learned about the history of the town and municipality through a visit to the Historic Center, exploring emblematic sites such as the Convent Church, the Queen's Tower, the Mother Church, the Pillory, the Interpretive Center of the Order of Avis, and the Museum of the Alentejo Countryside. The tour concluded with a tasting of a traditional Avispão sweet pastry.
The visit also included the Nautical Club Complex, one of the most emblematic locations in the municipality. Before returning, the participants had lunch at the restaurant “Tasca do Montinho”.
The initiative's closing ceremony took place at this venue, attended by the municipal executive of Avis, the President of the Intermunicipal Council of CIMAA, and the President of the Board of Directors of ULSAALE. The overall assessment was very positive, with participants highlighting the quality of life and professional recognition in the region, suggesting that Alto Alentejo may feature in their future career choices.
