Lisbon: Knights Templar Legacy and Tomar - All Tickets Included
Description
From medieval fortresses to hidden symbols, discover the Knights Templar legacy in Tomar and the role this powerful religious and military order played in shaping Portuguese history Your journey begins at the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO Site. Founded as a 12th century Templar stronghold, it later became the headquarters of the Order of Christ and evolved over centuries into a vast religious complex Walk through layers of history as Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance architecture reveal how the monument changed from a fortified castle into a religious centre. Learn about the rules, battles and Crusades that shaped the order Santa Maria do Olival, a 12th century church traditionally linked to the Knights Templar and the burial place of several masters of the Portuguese order Almourol Castle, positioned on a small island in the river. Built in the 12th century, this remarkably preserved fortress offers one of the most impressive connections to Portugal’s medieval and Templar heritage
Tour Options
Itinerary
At this point you will enjoy a guided visit where your guide will help you interpret this remarkable Portuguese monument, with constructions spanning the 12th to the 18th century, whose scale and complexity can be overwhelming without guidance, as you discover the lives, habits and traditions of the Knights Templar and how they transitioned into monastic life.
Understand how this church is connected to the Templars, the very first structure they built upon arriving here, a place that played a key role in Portuguese history as it answered directly to the Vatican and the Pope, and that still today remains an active place of worship for the local community.
To complete the experience, you can enjoy some free time exploring the charming town of Tomar, or even have lunch in a local medieval-themed restaurant for a truly immersive journey into the past.
You’ll also visit the Castle of Almourol, a stunning and rare example of original 12th-century military architecture, standing on a small island in the Tagus River. A true frontier fortress of the time, it offers a unique chance to imagine the life of a medieval Templar knight.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
This pickup service is exclusively for the private tour option. Pickup and drop off are available in the Lisbon, Cascais, Sintra and Ericeira areas.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- The boat visit to Almourol Castle may be cancelled due to river levels. During periods of heavy rainfall, access to the island may be suspended for safety reasons
- Please note that there are uphill walks and steps required to visit both monuments. This experience may not be suitable for guests with significant mobility issues
- It is important to check the weather forecast the day before, as temperatures inland can be significantly cooler or warmer than in Lisbon.
- Not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions, heart problems, or mobility issues.
Reviews(1)
Our family of 6 thoroughly enjoyed the Knights Templar tour, and our guide, Francisco, made it extra special. His wealth of historical knowledge is astounding! We asked many questions and all were answered. Our private tour allowed us to spend as much time as we wanted at each of the stops. We highly recommend!!
