Trás-os-Montes - Planalto Mirandês is an area located in northeastern Portugal that is known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is often referred to as "the land behind the mountains," and covers an area of 8,000 square kilometers with a population of around 136,000 people.
The heart of this region is the Planalto Mirandês (Miranda Plateau), where the traditional Miranda donkey and the Miranda sheepdog, both now rare, originate. This plateau is known for its well-preserved nature, rustic villages, traditional farmlands, and unspoilt landscapes.
Trás-os-Montes - Planalto Mirandês area has a unique culture, with traditions that go back for centuries. Here, the ancient Mirandese language is still spoken, making this region an important place for linguistic preservation. The language is officially recognized in Portugal and is taught in some of the regional schools.
The region is rich in gastronomy, offering such specialties as posta mirandesa, a kind of steak prepared with local beef, and other meats that are typically smoked. It is also famous for its olive oil, and produces its own wine under the designation "Trás-os-Montes."
In terms of sights, Trás-os-Montes - Planalto Mirandês offers beautiful panoramas, consisting of plateaus and mountain ranges, and it is home to two natural parks, the Montesinho Natural Park and the International Douro Natural Park. It's also known for its historical and architectural heritage, including several castles, Romanesque churches, and ancient stone formations.