Discover the captivating legacy of the Knights Templar on this immersive tour through Portugal’s historic sites. Starting in Lisbon, you’ll venture to the impressive Castle of Almourol, a well-preserved 12th-century stronghold, before exploring the Convent of Christ, the order’s former headquarters. The tour then takes you to the charming town of Tomar, where you’ll explore the enduring influence of the Templars on Portugal’s cultural heritage. But the journey doesn’t end there – a guided tour of the Gothic architecture in Santarém District offers a stunning finale to this enlightening exploration.
Key Points
- This Knights Templar tour offers a comprehensive journey through the legacy of the medieval military order, including visits to their historical sites in Portugal.
- The tour starts with a hassle-free pickup from Lisbon, allowing travelers to embark on the exploration of the Templar’s fortresses and convent.
- Highlights include the Castle of Almourol, a well-preserved 12th-century Templar stronghold, and the Convent of Christ, the order’s headquarters in Portugal.
- Visitors can enjoy the medieval history and architecture of the historic town of Tomar, a key Templar settlement.
- The tour concludes with a guided exploration of the Gothic city of Santarém, showcasing the enduring influence of the Knights Templar in Portugal.
Tour Itinerary
The tour commences with a pickup from Lisbon, embarking on a journey to uncover the captivating history of the Knights Templar.
First, visitors will explore the Castle of Almourol, a 12th-century stronghold that served as a strategic outpost for the Templars. After a guided tour and free time, the group will head to the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the Templar’s architectural prowess.
The tour then continues to the historic town of Tomar, where visitors can enjoy a break, visit, and have a guided tour.
The final stop is the Santarém District, renowned for its Gothic architecture. Throughout the day, travelers will be treated to scenic views and immersed in the captivating legacy of the enigmatic Knights Templar.
Pickup From Lisbon
The tour commences with a pickup from Lisbon, allowing travelers to embark on their journey to uncover the captivating history of the Knights Templar. This convenient start ensures a seamless experience, as visitors don’t have to worry about transportation or finding the starting point.
The pickup service provides a hassle-free beginning, setting the tone for a day filled with exploration and discovery.
From Lisbon, the tour will take participants to the iconic Castle of Almourol, the Convent of Christ, and the historic city of Tomar, among other notable sites.
With this pickup service, travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the rich legacy of the Knights Templar.
Castle of Almourol
Visiting the Castle of Almourol takes visitors on a captivating journey through the legacy of the Knights Templar, as they explore the well-preserved fortress situated on a small island in the Tagus River.
The guided tour allows guests to uncover the castle’s rich history, from its strategic location to its impressive architectural features. Visitors can wander through the castle’s stone walls, admiring the intricate details and imagining the lives of the Templar knights who once occupied the stronghold.
With 2.5 hours of free time, guests can enjoy the castle’s atmosphere, capturing breathtaking views and gaining a deeper understanding of the Templar’s influence in the region. The optional boat ride across the river offers a unique perspective of the castle’s impressive island setting.
Convent of Christ
After exploring the Castle of Almourol, the Knights Templar Tour moves on to the Convent of Christ, where visitors can discover the order’s enduring legacy through a guided tour of this historic site.
Built in the 12th century, the Convent of Christ was the headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal. Visitors will marvel at the Templar castle and its impressive medieval architecture, including the magnificent Charola, a unique circular church that reflects the Templars’ spiritual and military traditions.
The guided tour allows guests to explore the Convent’s rich history and uncover the mysteries surrounding the Knights Templar. This immersive experience provides a fascinating glimpse into the past and the lasting impact of this legendary order.
Tomar Break and Visit
Following the guided tour of the Convent of Christ, the Knights Templar Tour participants can take a break and explore the historic town of Tomar.
During this segment, they’ll have the opportunity to wander through Tomar’s streets, visit local landmarks, and enjoy a lunch in one of the town’s charming cafes or restaurants.
The itinerary allows for 2.5 hours in Tomar, giving visitors ample time to:
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Stroll through the medieval city center and admire the architectural gems.
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Visit the Igreja de São João Baptista, a Gothic-style church with impressive stonework.
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Savor a traditional Portuguese meal and soak in the lively atmosphere of the town.
Santarém District Tour
The Knights Templar Tour then takes participants to the Santarém District, where they’ll embark on a guided tour to explore the Gothic city and its rich history.
Visitors will discover the district’s impressive architecture, including the grand Santarém Cathedral, a prime example of Manueline and Gothic styles.
The tour also provides an opportunity to wander through the charming streets and learn about the city’s role in Portugal’s medieval past.
With its well-preserved historical sites and picturesque setting, the Santarém District offers a fascinating glimpse into the legacy of the Knights Templar and the enduring cultural heritage of Portugal.
Tour Highlights
Exploring the history and legacy of the Knights Templar, this immersive tour offers visitors a captivating journey through Portugal’s medieval past.
Travelers can explore the intriguing history of the Templar order, discovering their architectural and cultural influences across the region.
The tour highlights include:
- No waiting lines, allowing seamless access to the sites and a more authentic experience.
- The opportunity to explore the Castle of Almourol and the Convent of Christ, both steeped in Templar history and tradition.
- A visit to the Santarém Gothic City, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and the chance to savor the local atmosphere.
Throughout the day, guests will enjoy a pleasant journey, with waters, internet, and boat rides included, creating an enriching and memorable experience.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the experience, such as bottled water, onboard Wi-Fi, and admission to key sites like the Castle of Almourol and the Convent of Christ. However, it doesn’t cover meals or any additional personal expenses incurred during the day.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| – Bottled water | – Meals |
| – Onboard Wi-Fi | – Additional expenses |
| – Entrance to Castle of Almourol and Convent of Christ |
The tour’s inclusions provide a comfortable and informative journey, allowing visitors to focus on seeing the Knights Templar legacy. Participants will be responsible for covering their own meals and any other costs that arise during the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is up to 8 people. The tour price is $856.40 per group, which covers the group’s entry fees and transportation, though meals and additional expenses are not included.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?
The tour can be customized to individual preferences. Customers have the option to add or skip certain activities, such as the visit to Tomar or the Santarém District, according to their interests and schedule.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for This Tour?
The tour generally does not have any age restrictions or requirements. However, young children may need adult supervision, and participants should be able to handle moderate walking and exploring historical sites. It’s best to check with the tour provider for specific details.
Is It Possible to Book the Tour With a Different Pickup Location?
Yes, it’s often possible to arrange a different pickup location for tours like this one. Customers should check with the tour operator to see if alternate pickup options are available and if there are any additional fees.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?
The cancellation and refund policy for this tour allows customers to cancel their booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. After that, no refunds are provided.
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Recap
The Knights Templar Tour offers a captivating exploration of Portugal’s rich Templar heritage.
Travelers will visit the well-preserved Castle of Almourol, the Templar headquarters at the Convent of Christ, and the historic town of Tomar.
The tour concludes with a guided tour of the Gothic architecture in the Santarém District, showcasing the enduring influence of the Knights Templar on Portugal’s cultural legacy.
