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Unveiling Tomar Portugal Knights Templar History: The Enigmatic Convent of Christ.

Writer's picture: Olivier de JoinvilleOlivier de Joinville
Nestled amidst the rolling hills of central Portugal lies the ancient city of Tomar, a place steeped in history and imbued with an aura of mystery. Tomar's claim to fame lies in its former role as the last Templar stronghold in Europe, a legacy that continues to fascinate and intrigue visitors from around the globe.

Tomar knights templar castle exterior, garden, day, sunlight, clear sky, central Portugal
Templar Castle Tomar, Portugal
Tomar's Templar Stronghold

In 1147, the Knights Templar received a generous donation of land in Tomar, a strategic location bordering the River Nabão. Under the leadership of the visionary Grand Master Gualdim Pais, the Templars embarked on a monumental construction project that would transform the site into a formidable fortress and a centre of Templar learning and devotion.


Round oratory of the Templar Convent of Christ, walls painted and gilded ornaments
Oratory of the Templar Convent of Christ
The Convent of Christ: A Templar Masterpiece

The heart of Templar legacy is the Convent of Christ in Tomar, Portugal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that seamlessly blends military fortifications with religious architecture. The history of th enigmatic Convent of Christ with its intricate design, characterised by its circular chapels, soaring towers, and labyrinthine passages, reflects the Templars' unique blend of martial prowess and spiritual fervour.


"Non Nobis Domine Non Nobis Sed Nomini Tuo da Gloriam"
"Not For Us, My Lord, Not For Us, But to Your Name Give the Glory"


The Templars' Enduring Influence

Despite the suppression of the Order of the Knights Templar in 1312 by the French king Philip IV, the Templars' influence in Tomar continued to flourish. The Order of Christ, successor to the Templars in Portugal, maintained control over the Convent of Christ, overseeing its continued development and transformation into a masterpiece of Portuguese architecture.


people with "tabuleiros" in Tomar central square during the festival, church of St. John and Gualdim Pais statue in the background
Quadrennial "Festa dos Tabuleiros" Festival
Unveiling the Templar Mysteries

Tomar's connection to the Templars extends beyond its physical structures. The city's streets, plazas, and landmarks are imbued with Templar secrets and symbolism, inviting visitors to embark on a quest to decipher the order's enigmatic legacy. The town's quadrennial Tabuleiros Festival, a cultural heritage tradition, features elaborate processions and intricate flower arrangements, perpetuating the Templars' legacy in a vibrant contemporary expression.


A Treasure Trove of Templar Lore

Tomar's Templar history is not without its share of intrigue and conspiracy theories. Legends abound of hidden treasures, secret passageways, and mystical knowledge concealed within the Convent of Christ. While these tales may be rooted in folklore, they add to the mystique of Tomar and continue to fuel interest in the Templars' enigmatic presence in the city.



Knight Templar representation, Tomar Templar Castle in the background, sunset light
Tomar: A Journey into Templar Enigma

A visit to Tomar is a journey into a world of medieval intrigue and architectural grandeur. The city's Templar legacy, intertwined with its rich history and captivating beauty, makes it a destination that will leave visitors with lasting impressions and a newfound appreciation for the Knights Templar's enduring influence.



sunsey over Tomar Nabão river, old bridge and historic city and castle in the background
Sunset at Tomar, the Templar City


Great videolog about Tomar from Helen and Martin!

Tomar is a fantastic place; the castle is absolutely stunning, and the history of the Knights Templar is fascinating. Not to be missed. Very interesting and educational.

Thanks Helen & Martin!


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