Tomar, Almourol and Knights Templar

Tomar, a historic Portuguese city, has long been intertwined with the legacy of the Knights Templar. Their influence is most strikingly showcased in the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the nearby Almourol Castle – a 12th-century fortress strategically situated on an island in the Tagus River. Together, these remarkable sites offer a captivating glimpse into the order’s architectural and historical impact. But the story of the Knights Templar’s connection to Tomar doesn’t end there. Explore further, and uncover the full extent of their enduring influence on this captivating destination.

Good To Know

• The Convent of Christ in Tomar was established in 1171 and served as a significant site for the Knights Templar, featuring architecture inspired by Solomon’s Temple.
• Almourol Castle, built in the 12th century by the Knights Templar, is a well-preserved fortress strategically located on an island in the Tagus River.
• The Church of Santa Maria do Olival in Tomar served as a burial site for Templar leaders and provides insights into the religious practices of the order.
• The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Knights Templar legacy, including guided visits to the Convent of Christ and other key historical sites in Tomar.
• The tour provides an immersive experience, with small group size and inclusion of all entrance tickets, as well as safety measures to ensure participant comfort.

Overview of the Tour

This full-day excursion from Lisbon to Tomar provides visitors with an in-depth look into the captivating history of the Knights Templar.

The tour focuses on key Templar sites, including the 12th-century Almourol Castle, the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ, and the Church of Santa Maria do Olival.

With a small group size, travelers receive personalized attention from knowledgeable guides.

Boasting a 5.0 rating from 25 reviews, this tour offers an immersive experience that brings the Templar legacy to life.

From the castle’s island setting to the Convent’s Manueline architecture, each stop promises to captivate history enthusiasts and leave a lasting impression.

Key Attractions

The tour explores several key attractions that offer glimpses into the captivating history of the Knights Templar. Visitors will marvel at the imposing Almourol Castle, a 12th-century fortress built by the Templars on an island in the Tagus River. The highlight of the tour is the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features a church inspired by Solomon’s Temple and an iconic Manueline window. The tour also includes a visit to the Church of Santa Maria do Olival, an important historical site associated with the Templars.

Attraction	Description
Almourol Castle	12th-century castle built by the Templars on an island in the Tagus River
Convent of Christ	UNESCO World Heritage Site with a church inspired by Solomon’s Temple and a Manueline window
Church of Santa Maria do Olival	Important historical site associated with the Templars

Almourol Castle

Perched atop a rocky outcrop in the middle of the Tagus River, the imposing Almourol Castle stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Knights Templar.

This 12th-century fortress was built by the revered religious order to guard the strategic river crossing and serve as a center of their activities in the region.

With its sturdy stone walls and impressive towers, the castle exudes an air of strength and power, reflecting the Templars’ unwavering commitment to protecting Christian pilgrims and defending the faith.

Today, visitors can explore the castle’s well-preserved ruins, seeing the rich history of this iconic Templar stronghold.

Convent of Christ

Nestled within the historic city of Tomar, the Convent of Christ stands as a remarkable testament to the enduring legacy of the Knights Templar.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site features a church inspired by Solomon’s Temple, multiple cloisters, and the iconic Manueline window, a stunning architectural masterpiece.

Visitors can explore the Convent’s rich history, which dates back to 1171, and gain insights into the Templars’ influence on the region.

The guided tour offers a captivating journey through the Convent’s halls, revealing the intricate details and symbolism that have stood the test of time.

As a highlight of the tour, the Convent of Christ provides a rare glimpse into the world of the legendary Knights Templar.

Church of Santa Maria Do Olival

Alongside the Convent of Christ, the Church of Santa Maria do Olival stands as another pivotal site associated with the Knights Templar in Tomar.

This important historical church dates back to 1160 and was once the burial place for many Templar leaders. Visitors can explore the church’s Romanesque architecture and see the tombstones of notable figures like Gualdim Pais, the first Grand Master of the Templars in Portugal.

The church’s proximity to the Convent of Christ highlights the deep ties between this religious order and the town of Tomar, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the Knights Templar.

Inclusions and Logistics

This tour provides a comprehensive experience for visitors interested in the Knights Templar history in Tomar.

All entrance tickets are included, allowing seamless access to the key attractions. Guests will enjoy a guided tour inside the iconic Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lunch is provided, ensuring a well-rounded day. The meeting point is at Alameda Cardeal Cerejeira in Lisbon, with check-in at 8:10 AM and departure at 8:20 AM.

The tour returns to the original meeting location at the end of the day. Mandatory safety measures, such as face masks and hand hygiene, are in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Health and Safety Measures

Diligent health and safety measures are implemented throughout the tour to ensure the well-being of all participants. Masks are mandatory inside vehicles and monuments, and hand hygiene is required before entering. The vehicles undergo daily disinfection, ensuring a clean and safe environment. While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, strollers are allowed, though a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended.

Measure	Rationale	Impact
Mandatory Masks	Prevent virus transmission	Safeguard health and comply with regulations
Hand Hygiene	Maintain personal hygiene	Reduce infection risk
Vehicle Disinfection	Maintain cleanliness	Provide a safe and comfortable journey

These precautions demonstrate the tour operator’s commitment to prioritizing the safety and comfort of their guests.

Customer Reviews

The tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from past participants. With a 5.0 rating based on 25 reviews, the experience has earned a Badge of Excellence.

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who provide engaging historical insights. The highlights often include the stunning castles and the chance to explore the captivating Knights Templar history.

Participants highly recommend the tour for those interested in this unique period. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides added flexibility.

At prices starting from $108.50, the tour delivers excellent value for the comprehensive itinerary and services offered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Meet My Specific Interests?

Yes, you can customize the tour to meet your specific interests. The tour provider offers a personalized experience and is open to tailoring the itinerary to your preferences within the overall focus on Knights Templar history.

Are Photography Permits Available for the Convent of Christ?

Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t include photography permits for the Convent of Christ. Visitors are generally allowed to take photos in the interior, but commercial use or tripods may require special permission from the site management.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Family Groups?

The tour operator offers discounted family packages, allowing groups to save on the overall cost. Specific details on family pricing and group size requirements are available upon inquiry or booking the excursion.

Can I Visit the Tour Sites Independently if I Don’t Join the Group?

Yes, visitors can explore the tour sites independently if they don’t join the group. The key attractions, including Almourol Castle and the Convent of Christ, are open to the public and can be visited without the guided tour.

What Are the Options for Dietary Requirements During the Included Lunch?

The tour provider offers vegetarian and vegan options for the included lunch, catering to various dietary requirements. You can simply notify the guide of your preferences when checking in for the excursion.

The Sum Up

Tomar’s Almourol Castle and Convent of Christ provide a captivating glimpse into the Knights Templar‘s medieval legacy. Visitors can explore the fortress’s strategic island location and the convent’s stunning Templar architecture, seeing the order’s history of safeguarding Christian pilgrims. These remarkable sites make Tomar a must-visit destination for those interested in the Templars’ influence on Portugal’s past.