Located in the heart of Portugal, Tomar is a city steeped in history, mystery, and Catholic heritage. Known as the Templar City, Tomar played a pivotal role in the rise of the Knights Templar in Portugal and later became a symbol of the Order of Christ, which carried forward the Templar legacy. With its rich past, stunning architecture, and deeply spiritual landmarks, Tomar offers visitors a unique window into medieval Christian history and Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
The History of Tomar
Tomar’s history is intrinsically linked to the Knights Templar, a medieval Catholic military order. Founded in the early 12th century, the city was granted to the Templars by King Afonso I (Afonso Henriques) in 1159 as a reward for their assistance in the Reconquista—Portugal’s efforts to reclaim territory from Moorish rule.
The Templars, led by Gualdim Pais, the first Grand Master of the Knights Templar in Portugal, built the city’s defining monument: the Convent of Christ. Under their guidance, Tomar flourished as a center of power and influence, particularly during the construction of the Castelo de Tomar (Castle of Tomar), which became the headquarters of the Templars in Portugal.
Following the suppression of the Knights Templar by the Pope in the early 14th century, the Order of Christ was established in Portugal, effectively continuing the Templar legacy under a different name. King Dinis helped to restructure the order, and Prince Henry the Navigator—a key figure in Portugal’s Age of Discovery—became its most famous Grand Master. Under his leadership, the Order of Christ played a crucial role in the exploration of new lands, using the wealth and influence of the order to fund expeditions that would change the course of world history.
Today, Tomar’s Templar heritage is still visible in its architectural and cultural landmarks, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in medieval history, Catholic heritage, and Portugal’s historical ties to the Knights Templar.
What to See and Visit in Tomar
Tomar is home to an array of fascinating sites that reflect its long and storied past. Whether you’re exploring the grandeur of the Convent of Christ or wandering the cobblestone streets of its medieval heart, there’s no shortage of incredible things to see and do in this Templar city.
1. Convent of Christ (Convento de Cristo)
The Convent of Christ is undoubtedly the crown jewel of Tomar and one of Portugal’s most important historical and religious monuments. Originally built as a Templar stronghold in the 12th century, it was later expanded and transformed into a monumental convent by the Order of Christ. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases a blend of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance, reflecting its long history.
- What to See: The centerpiece of the Convent of Christ is the Charola, a 12-sided Templar round church modeled after the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. It is richly decorated with frescoes, intricate wood carvings, and gold leaf, symbolizing the wealth and power of the Templars. The Manueline Window of the Chapter House is another must-see—this elaborate stonework is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, featuring maritime and religious motifs that reflect Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Other highlights include the Main Cloister, the Cloister of John III, and the impressive Chapter House.
- Why Visit: The Convent of Christ is a breathtaking example of religious and military architecture, and its historical significance as the headquarters of the Knights Templar and later the Order of Christ makes it a pilgrimage site for anyone interested in Catholic and Templar history.
2. Castelo de Tomar (Castle of Tomar)
Adjacent to the Convent of Christ is the Castelo de Tomar, a 12th-century fortress built by the Knights Templar to defend the region from Moorish attacks. The castle offers stunning views over the surrounding landscape and the town of Tomar below.
- What to See: Walk through the castle’s imposing walls and towers, including the Alcáçova, the fortified residence of the Templar knights. Explore the Keep, where you can get a sense of the defensive power the castle once held. The Patio of the Knights offers a serene and peaceful setting, surrounded by stone archways and steeped in history.
- Why Visit: The Castle of Tomar is not only an essential part of the city’s Templar heritage, but it also offers visitors a chance to step back into medieval times and appreciate the strategic importance of Tomar as a Templar stronghold.
3. Church of Santa Maria do Olival
The Church of Santa Maria do Olival is another key religious site in Tomar, originally built in the 12th century as the headquarters church of the Knights Templar. This Gothic church served as the burial place for many of the Grand Masters of the Templar Order in Portugal, including Gualdim Pais, the founder of Tomar.
- What to See: The church’s Gothic architecture is simple but elegant, with a stunning rose window above the entrance and a tranquil interior. The tomb of Gualdim Pais, located inside the church, is a significant highlight, making this a sacred site for those interested in Templar history.
- Why Visit: The Church of Santa Maria do Olival is not only a beautiful example of Gothic architecture but also an important part of Tomar’s religious history. It was the spiritual heart of the Templar community in Portugal, and its significance continues to resonate today.
4. Synagogue of Tomar
A lesser-known but equally fascinating part of Tomar’s religious history is its 15th-century synagogue, one of the best-preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal. Though small in size, the synagogue offers insight into the Jewish community that once thrived in Tomar.
- What to See: Inside the synagogue, you’ll find a simple yet historically significant space, with four columns representing the four mothers of Israel. The synagogue is now home to the Luso-Hebraic Museum of Abraham Zacuto, which contains artifacts and documents that shed light on the Jewish history of the region.
- Why Visit: The synagogue is a testament to the religious diversity that once existed in Tomar and offers a poignant reminder of the town’s Jewish heritage.
5. Praça da República and the Church of São João Baptista
In the heart of Tomar is the Praça da República, the town’s main square, dominated by the beautiful Church of São João Baptista. This Gothic and Manueline church, with its distinctive bell tower and richly decorated doorway, is a serene place for reflection and prayer. The square itself is lined with historical buildings and is the perfect spot to enjoy the atmosphere of this charming town.
- What to See: Inside the church, you’ll find impressive Gothic architecture, including beautiful azulejo tilework and religious paintings, most notably by Gregório Lopes, a famous Portuguese painter of the 16th century. The baptismal font and the baroque altarpiece are also worth admiring.
- Why Visit: The Church of São João Baptista is a peaceful and beautiful spot in Tomar’s center and offers visitors a glimpse into the town’s religious life during the medieval period.
6. Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes (Seven Hills National Forest)
For a peaceful escape into nature, visit the Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes, a vast parkland located just outside the city center. This lush forest, which once belonged to the Order of Christ, is an ideal place for quiet reflection, walking, or picnicking among the olive trees and cypress groves.
- What to See: Wander along the serene pathways that wind through the forest, enjoying the tranquility of nature. You’ll also come across several historical ruins and structures associated with the Templars and the Order of Christ, adding an extra layer of history to your visit.
- Why Visit: This park is a relaxing retreat from the city, and its connection to the Templars makes it a fitting place for reflection after exploring Tomar’s historical sites.
Festivals and Cultural Events
Tomar’s rich history and Templar heritage are celebrated throughout the year with various cultural events, the most famous of which is the Festa dos Tabuleiros (Festival of the Trays). Held every four years, this spectacular festival honors the Holy Spirit and features a grand procession of local women carrying tall trays of flowers and bread, symbolizing offerings to God. The festival, which dates back to the 14th century, fills the streets of Tomar with vibrant color and religious devotion.
Conclusion
Tomar is much more than a picturesque medieval town—it’s a living testament to Portugal’s Catholic heritage, Templar history, and rich cultural traditions. From the majestic Convent of Christ to the humble Church of Santa Maria do Olival, the city’s historical landmarks reflect its importance in the rise of the Knights Templar and the Order of Christ, as well as its role in the Age of Discovery.
Whether you’re exploring the town’s ancient streets, marveling at its architectural wonders, or reflecting on its deep religious significance, Tomar offers a journey through some of the most fascinating chapters of Portugal’s history
