Central Alentejo is a sub-region entirely comprising to the district of Évora; it is notable for its historic centre, its university – which dates back to medieval times – its gastronomy and its pleasant climate. The region, renowned for its high plains that stretch as far as the eye can see, also has extremely valuable mineral resources, such as granite and marble deposits. It has not, however, been spared by the general ageing of the population, and a considerable proportion of its young people have migrated to coastal regions.