Private Tour Tomar Templar Route

The City of Tomar is a captivating destination steeped in centuries of history, making it an unforgettable stop on any day trip from Lisbon. Nestled along the picturesque Nabão valley, this region has been inhabited since the Paleolithic period and was once home to the ancient Roman cities of Nabantia and Sellium.

Historical Highlights:

• Reconquista Heritage: Conquered from the Moors in 1147 by Portugal’s first king, King Afonso Henriques.
• Templar Legacy: Donated in 1159 to the Knights Templar, turning the region into a major medieval stronghold.
• Convent of Christ: Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site and legendary headquarters of the Templars in Portugal.
• Nabão River Valley: Enjoy scenic landscapes rich in ancient history and tranquil nature.

Activity: Free time to explore the historic center or visit the famous Convent of Christ in Tomar during your tour from Lisbon.

A private visit to Tomar includes an unforgettable tour of the magnificent Convent of Christ. Originally founded in 1162 by the Grand Master of the Templars, Dom Gualdim Pais, this extraordinary site served as the headquarters for both the legendary Knights Templar in Portugal and their successors, the Order of Christ. Today, it stands as a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site filled with centuries of history and architectural wonder.

Convent of Christ Highlights:

• Templar Heritage: Explore the ancient stronghold and preserved memories of the historic knight monks.
• UNESCO World Heritage: Discover one of Portugal’s most valuable architectural and cultural landmarks.
• Charola (Rotunda): Marvel at the famous 12th-century octagonal Templar church inspired by the Holy Sepulchre.
• Manueline Architecture: See the intricate medieval stone carvings, including the iconic Chapter House Window.

The historical Tomar Castle was built in 1160 by the Knights Templar as a strategic defensive stronghold against Muslim forces. In 1190, the castle proved its strength by resisting a fierce siege by the Emir of Morocco, an event so intense that one entrance was named the Porta do Sangue (Blood Gate). Following the suppression of the Templars in 1312, King Dinis transferred the fortress to the Order of Christ, later governed by Prince Henry the Navigator, who resided here during the Age of Discovery.

Castle Highlights:

• Templar Fortress: Built in 1160 as a crucial line of defense in central Portugal.
• Historic Resistance: Site of the famous 1190 siege and home to the iconic Porta do Sangue.
• Royal & Discovery History: Residence of Prince Henry the Navigator under the Order of Christ.
• National Monument: A recognized UNESCO World Heritage site of exceptional cultural value.

On the return journey to Lisbon, visit the iconic Almourol Castle, a majestic fortress set on a small islet in the Tagus River. Inhabited since the Roman era and later occupied by Visigoths and Muslims, it was conquered in 1129 during the Christian Reconquest by King Afonso Henriques, who entrusted the site to the Knights Templar to build their signature medieval fortification.

Almourol Castle Highlights:

• Islet Fortress: A picturesque medieval castle dramatically positioned on a small island in the Tagus River.
• Ancient Origins: Rich history spanning Roman occupation, Visigoth settlement, and Muslim rule.
• Templar Architecture: Rebuilt by the Order of the Temple into a classic military stronghold.
• Reconquista History: A fundamental defensive post during the founding of the kingdom of Portugal.