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Offered languages
- Portuguese
- English
Experience the epic tale of the Knights Templar in Tomar on this exclusive full-day guided tour. This is more than a tour—it's a meticulously crafted historical narrative that chronologically traces the Templars' story, from their origins to their enduring legacy in Tomar.
Your journey begins at the Convent of Christ, the heart of this tale. Explore how the Templars' fortress transformed over the centuries, evolving from a powerful military stronghold into a magnificent architectural testament to their influence. Our guide will reveal the story behind the architecture, from the superb Knights Templar Round Church to the majestic Manueline Window.
The narrative continues in the afternoon, where you will explore Tomar's old town. Discover how this medieval settlement flourished under their guidance. With our expert guide, you will gain a profound and engaging understanding of the Templars’ pivotal role in Portuguese history. This is the story of Tomar, told as it happened.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The tour guide will be waiting at the meeting point with a sign with the logo/ brand name Historyteller.
Itinerary
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1Castelo de Tomar
We begin your tour at the Castle of Tomar, the original headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal. We will trace the origins of the order from the Holy Land and explore their arrival in Portugal. The castle was strategically built to serve as a key center of Templar power and a vital fortress during the Reconquista.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Next, we move on to the heart of the fortress: the Convent of Christ. You'll step inside the stunning 12th-century Charola, the mysterious Templar Round Church, and then explore the magnificent Gothic-Manueline church. Here, you'll be captivated by the iconic Manueline Window, a marvel of sculpture adorned with ropes and nautical elements that stand as a powerful tribute to Portugal’s golden age of maritime exploration. As we continue, we will wander through masterpieces of Renaissance architecture, including the impressive Main Cloister, and discover later additions from the era of the Philippine Dynasty that reflect a significant shift in the convent’s history.
2 hours • Admission ticket not included -
3
Break for a lunch in Tomar's historic Old Town. Lunch is not included in the tour price. An optional lunch with your guide at a traditional local restaurant is available, but must be arranged with the guide at least one week in advance of your tour date.
2 hours • Admission ticket not included -
4
During the afternoon, we will journey into Tomar's Old Town, a medieval settlement founded by the Knights Templar. Your tour will lead us to the lively Praça da República, the town's main square. Next, we will delve into the historic Jewry, visiting its unique Synagogue to learn about the fascinating history of the Jewish community in Portugal. Your walk will then continue to the Templar mills, built by the knights themselves, and we will explore the remains of the earlier Roman and Visigothic settlements that existed in the town before the Knights Templar arrived.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
5
Your journey through history concludes at the Church of Santa Maria dos Olivais, a stunning Gothic church built in the 13th century. This sacred place served as the first pantheon for the Knights Templar, and as we explore its serene interior, we will delve into its profound importance to the order. We will also uncover the hidden secrets and rich symbology that still shroud this magnificent church in an aura of mystery.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This tour requires a minimum of 3 participants to proceed. All bookings are subject to confirmation.
- The entrance ticket to the Convent can be purchased during the tour.
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Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This tour requires a minimum of 3 participants to proceed. All bookings are subject to confirmation.
- The entrance ticket to the Convent can be purchased during the tour.
- An optional lunch with your guide at a traditional local restaurant is available. Please contact the guide at least one week in advance of the tour date to arrange this.
- During the summer months, we recommend bringing a sun hat, sunscreen, and a bottle of water.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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