Tomar and the Templars Convent of Christ Tour: A Historical Tale

We begin your tour at the Castle of Tomar, the original headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal. We will trace the origins of the order from the Holy Land and explore their arrival in Portugal. The castle was strategically built to serve as a key center of Templar power and a vital fortress during the Reconquista.

Next, we move on to the heart of the fortress: the Convent of Christ. You'll step inside the stunning 12th-century Charola, the mysterious Templar Round Church, and then explore the magnificent Gothic-Manueline church. Here, you'll be captivated by the iconic Manueline Window, a marvel of sculpture adorned with ropes and nautical elements that stand as a powerful tribute to Portugal’s golden age of maritime exploration. As we continue, we will wander through masterpieces of Renaissance architecture, including the impressive Main Cloister, and discover later additions from the era of the Philippine Dynasty that reflect a significant shift in the convent’s history.

Break for a lunch in Tomar's historic Old Town. Lunch is not included in the tour price. An optional lunch with your guide at a traditional local restaurant is available, but must be arranged with the guide at least one week in advance of your tour date.

During the afternoon, we will journey into Tomar's Old Town, a medieval settlement founded by the Knights Templar. Your tour will lead us to the lively Praça da República, the town's main square. Next, we will delve into the historic Jewry, visiting its unique Synagogue to learn about the fascinating history of the Jewish community in Portugal. Your walk will then continue to the Templar mills, built by the knights themselves, and we will explore the remains of the earlier Roman and Visigothic settlements that existed in the town before the Knights Templar arrived.

Your journey through history concludes at the Church of Santa Maria dos Olivais, a stunning Gothic church built in the 13th century. This sacred place served as the first pantheon for the Knights Templar, and as we explore its serene interior, we will delve into its profound importance to the order. We will also uncover the hidden secrets and rich symbology that still shroud this magnificent church in an aura of mystery.