The Knights of the Templar Castle and Convent of Christ in Tomar were a last minute addition during our May 2024 trip to Portugal. So glad we stopped here as it was one of our very favorite stops. To be walking where the Knights of the Templar once walked was quite an amazing feeling. This fortification is very impressive and is a UNESCA World Heritage Monument.
Location
The Knights of the Templar Castle and also the Convent of Christ Church is located in Tomar, Portugal. North west of Lisbon and south west of Porto.
Knights of the Templar
For almost seven hundred years the Knights of the Templar headquarters was in Tomar, Portugal. In 1160 the castle of the Knights of the Templar was built. The site is considered very strategic as it is on a hill and near a river. Its purpose was to regain control of the area from the Muslims.
The knights lived by a code of conduct but also would fight with no restraint for what they believed to be right and godly. They were fierce fighters and well respected for many years. The second crusades against the Muslims are an example of one of their causes. Their duties were defending Jerusalem and other holy sites along with protecting pilgrims traveling to the holy land.
In 1139 Pope Innocent II elevated the knights to elite status by allowing them to govern themselves and be accountable to no one but the Pope. The Knight did not need to pay taxes on their accumulated wealth which was received through many means, including donations and gifts.
The Knights lost their stronghold during the 12th century. During this time, the King of France was determined to abolish the Knights of the Templar. The king succeeded in this by arresting, torturing, and also killing many Knights. In 1312 Pope Clement V reluctantly abolished the Knights of Templar. At this time, the King of Portugal regrouped The Knights of the Templar, continuing at Tomar, and named them the Order of Christ. You can click here for more information on the Knights of the Templar
Exploring The Castle
For us, it was amazing to walk through the castle doors into the garden of the Knights of the Templar Castle. Not only did the castle impress us, but the ornate Convent of Christ church was also amazing. It was quite amazing to be walking in the same place as the famous Knights of Templar walked centuries ago. I could almost feel the energy that was once here.
Walking on the castle walls was surreal. Just thinking of these gallant Knights from so long ago keeping sentry as the walked on these same walls protecting the castle and church. Looking out on the beautiful countryside was very peaceful and quiet.
Snack Time
We noticed a snack bar in the parking lot so of course we stopped for a snack. As the day was hot and as usual, we were hungry so we stopped for a bite. I guess we worked up an appetite following the footsteps of the gallant Knights of the Templar. We had a spinach pie and cold drink. Both were good. In addition, there’s a great view of the castle.
History of the Convent of Christ
The Convent of Christ Church, founded by the Grand Knight of Knights of the Templar is built within the castle walls. It took 500 years to built and includes many architectural styles. When you step inside the final gate of the castle you can see the magnificent church and it just gets better as you get closer. After the Knights of the Templar were disbanded it became the monastery for the Order of Christ. There was a lot of wealth with this order and can be seen with the elaborate decorating. You can read more about the Convent of Christ by clicking here. Also if you prefer a tour of the Convent of Christ I have found one on Viator and you can click here to check it out.
Exploring the Convent of Christ
The Convent of Christ is even more spectacular on the inside. It is quite large and there are seven cloisters within its walls. There are also several courtyards, a great hall, and church with various architectural designs including tiles and art. The building is quite elaborate in some areas. After the Order of Christ was established, the Convent of Christ used some of its riches to fund voyages to other countries and colonization during the Age of Discovery. We tried to see it all but it is a bit confusing going through the rooms, cloisters, different floors and many hallways. The photos are in no particular order other than the order we went as we walked through the Convent of Christ.
Washing Cloister
Built between 1426 and 1453 and appropriately named, this is where the monks washed their clothing.
Prince Henry’s Quarters
Now in ruins, Prince Henry’s Quarters were built throughout 1420-1460. Prince Henry was the Administrator and Governor of the Order of Christ. The photo is looking through a window and down on the ruins of the quarters.
Cemetery Cloister
This area was for religious reasons and also burial of friar monks.
Portocarreiros Chapel
Built in 1826 this small chapel has beautiful tiles. There are eleven large tiles depicting the life of the Virgin Mary and Jesus.
New Sacristy
Also built in the 16th century this sacristy has a very elaborate ceiling.
Round Church
This was so spectacular. My photos do not capture the brilliance of this church. Built in the Romanesque sytle during the later half of the 12th century by The Knights of the Templar, it is quite grand. The interior, updated in a Gothic style in 1499 and continued the remodeling in 1510 in the gothic and renaissance style of that era. The beauty of this church just takes your breath away.
Cloister of King João III
Also known as the Main Cloister, the Cloister of King Joao II used for prayer, processions, and retreats is considered the most important Cloister. Built between 1557-1591 this cloister is actually outside of the castle walls connecting the church to the cells of the monks.
The Main Dormitory
Built between 1543 and 1545 this large dormitory contains 40 cells constructed in a T shape. At one end there is a water supply.
Cistern
The Cistern for the Convent of Christ is very large! I had no desire to go down there and was ok with just seeing the photo Steve took.
Pantry, Oven House, and Dining Area
Not only were the monks and knights fed but also pilgrims and visitors.
Walkways, Stairs, Windows
I thought some of the most beautiful areas of the Convent of Christ were the walkways, stairs and windows. Imagine how many people have walked these same corridors and stairways and stared out these same windows!
Conclusion
The Knights of Templar Castle and Convent of Christ in Tomar is absolutely a must see while in Portugal. As a matter of fact, it was both Steve and my favorite site on our trip and we had so much fun here. If you prefer a tour I did not find any for just the Templar Castle but I did find one for Covent of Christ. That being said there are tours for both from Lisbon.A tour would be helpful if you have the time as this is a very large site and it is easy to find yourself waking around in circles. You can click here to see and book the Viator Convent of Christ tour.
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Diary of a Gen-X recommendations for hotels, restaurants, activities or tour companies are based on our own experiences. We do not receive compensation for recommending at any of these nor are we affiliates of any hotels, restaurants, activities or tour companines. All photos are by myself or my husband.