BEIRA, a province of Portugal, bounded on the west by the ocean, on the south by the Portuguese Estremadura, on the south-east by the Spanish province of the same name, on the east by the province of Tralos Montos, and on the north by the river Douro. It extends in length about 34 leagues, and in breadth about 30 leagues, and is divided into six commarcas. Within this province lies Lamego, where the first assembly of the states was held; the chief episcopal city of Coimbra, or Coimbra, which is likewise a university; and Viseo, also a bishopric, and formerly the capital of a dukedom. The country is equally agreeable and fruitful, producing corn, wines, &c. in abundance, and the hills affording excellent pasture to cattle and sheep. The settled militia consists of about 10,000 men.