The Private Visit to Tomar is an experience that transports us to the past, revealing the rich history and legacy of the Templars in Portugal. We will explore two emblematic sites: the Convent of Christ and the Castle of Almourol .
✅ Convent of Christ: Templar Heritage
- Founded in 1162 by the Grand Master of the Templars, Dom Gualdim Pais , the Convent of Christ in Tomar was the epicenter of the Templar Order. Here, the knight monks left their mark, and the heirs to that legacy, the Order of Christ , turned this building into their headquarters. Today, it is considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO . As you explore the convent, you will find traces of this fascinating history.
✅ Tomar Castle: Defense and Glory
- Construction of Tomar Castle began in 1160 , under the supervision of the Templars. He was part of a line of defense against Muslim attacks. In 1190 , the castle proved its resistance during a siege by the forces of the Emir of Morocco. Tomar not only resisted but also inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy. One of the castle's doors became known as the Blood Door . After the extinction of the Templar Order in 1312 , King Dinis handed Tomar over to the Order of Christ . Infante D. Henrique , famous for his achievements in the Great Navigations, also resided in this castle. Today, it is classified as a National Monument and World Heritage Site .
✅ Almourol Castle: Templar Fortress on an Island
- Back in Lisbon, we will visit Almourol Castle . Located on a small island, this fortress was already inhabited during the Roman occupation of the peninsula. In the 8th century, Muslims conquered the island from the Visigoths. During the Christian Reconquista , D. Afonso Henriques took Almourol in 1129 and handed it over to the Order of the Temple . The Templars rebuilt the castle, giving it the typical characteristics of Templar fortifications.
If you want to delve into the history of the Templars and explore these impressive sites, book your private tour. 🏰🔍🌟
