Uncover the captivating legacy of the Knights Templar with this immersive tour through Portugal’s enchanting historical landscape. Departing from Lisbon, this 8-hour journey takes explorers to iconic Templar sites, including the mighty Castle of Almourol and the stunning Convent of Christ. Along the way, step back in time as you wander through charming medieval towns, marvel at magnificent Manueline architecture, and embark on a scenic boat ride down the serene Tagus River. Prepare to be swept away by the Templar’s profound influence on Portugal’s cultural tapestry – a captivating experience that’s not to be missed.
Key Points
- Departs from Lisbon and explores the history and architecture of the Knights Templar, including visits to the Castle of Almourol, Convent of Christ, Tomar, and Santarém.
- Offers guided tours, free time, and a scenic boat ride on the Tagus River, providing a captivating journey through Portugal’s rich history.
- Highlights the 12th-century Castle of Almourol, a Templar stronghold with majestic stone walls and towers, set in a serene river setting.
- Includes a 2-hour guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Convent of Christ, the former headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal.
- Provides a visit to the historic town of Tomar, known for its Templar Castle and Synagogue, as well as the ‘Gothic City of Portugal,’ Santarém.
Tour Overview
Departing from Lisbon, the Knights Templar Tour offers an immersive 8-hour experience exploring the rich history and architectural wonders associated with this enigmatic medieval order.
The tour visits several key sites, including the Castle of Almourol, Convent of Christ, the town of Tomar, and the Gothic city of Santarém.
Highlights include guided tours, free time to wander, and a scenic boat ride on the Tagus River.
Travelers will explore the legacy of the Knights Templar, unraveling their mysteries and influence throughout Portugal.
With inclusions like waters, internet access, and skip-the-line entry, this comprehensive tour provides an engaging and seamless journey into the past.
Tour Stops
The Knights Templar Tour takes travelers on a captivating journey through Portugal’s rich history, with several must-see stops along the way. First, visitors explore the Castle of Almourol, a stunning 12th-century fortress perched on an island in the Tagus River. A guided tour and free time allow them to enjoy the Templar’s past. Next, they visit the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the Templar’s architectural and spiritual legacy.
| Tour Stop | Duration |
|---|---|
| Castle of Almourol | 2.5 hours |
| Convent of Christ | 2 hours |
| Tomar | 2.5 hours |
| Santarém | 1.5 hours |
The tour then leads them to the historic town of Tomar, where they can explore, enjoy a local lunch, and delve deeper into the Templar’s influence. Finally, the journey concludes in Santarém, the "Gothic City of Portugal," with a guided tour uncovering its architectural wonders.
Castle of Almourol
Perched atop a small island in the Tagus River, the Castle of Almourol stands as a majestic remnant of the Knights Templar’s legacy in Portugal.
Visitors on the tour can explore this 12th-century fortress, guided by knowledgeable experts who bring its storied past to life during the allotted 2.5 hours.
The castle’s imposing stone walls and towers evoke a sense of medieval grandeur, while the serene river setting adds to the enchanting atmosphere.
Travelers will learn about the strategic importance of this Templar stronghold and its role in defending the region against invaders.
With free time to wander the grounds, visitors can soak in the castle’s well-preserved architecture and imagine the knights who once roamed these halls.
Convent of Christ
After exploring the majestic Castle of Almourol, the Knights Templar Tour continues to the captivating Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once served as the headquarters of the Order in Portugal. Visitors can expect a guided tour lasting approximately 2 hours, during which they’ll be immersed in the rich history and stunning architecture of this remarkable 12th-century structure.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Architecture | Blending Romanesque and Gothic styles, the Convent of Christ boasts impressive cathedrals, cloisters, and defensive walls. |
| History | The Convent was the base of operations for the Knights Templar in Portugal, and later the Ordem de Cristo (Order of Christ). |
| Highlights | The Manueline-style Window, the Charola (Templar Church), and the impressive set of cloisters. |
| Exploration | Visitors can explore the Convent’s various chapels, halls, and gardens, seeing the Templar legacy. |
Tomar
Following the visit to the Convent of Christ, the tour continues on to the historic town of Tomar, a central highlight of the Knights Templar Tour.
Nestled along the Nabão River, Tomar serves as a captivating stopover, where visitors can expect to enjoy a break, savor a local lunch, and embark on a guided tour exploring the town’s rich Templar heritage.
The tour offers 2.5 hours to take in Tomar’s charming ambiance and uncover the secrets of the Templars who once called this place home.
From the Templar Castle to the historic Synagogue, each site offers a glimpse into the captivating history of the legendary military order.
Santarém
Next, the tour ventures to the historic city of Santarém, known as the ‘Gothic City of Portugal‘.
This captivating destination, situated along the Tagus River, offers visitors a chance to explore its rich architectural heritage and uncover the city’s storied past.
Guests embark on a guided tour, delving into Santarém’s remarkable Gothic structures, including the Igreja de São João de Alporão, a prime example of Manueline architecture.
The tour explores the city’s well-preserved historic center, showcasing its impressive cathedrals, monasteries, and medieval plazas.
Santarém’s blend of ancient charm and modern vibrancy captivates the senses, inviting travelers to enjoy the enduring legacy of this remarkable Portuguese city.
Inclusions
The Knights Templar Tour provides travelers with a comprehensive package of inclusions to enhance their experience, including bottled waters and internet access onboard the vehicle.
Visitors will also enjoy the convenience of pre-purchased entrance tickets to the captivating Castle of Almourol and the stunning Convent of Christ.
An enchanting boat ride is included, complete with an aperitif, allowing guests to fully enjoy the historical settings.
With these thoughtful inclusions, the tour ensures a seamless and memorable journey through the remarkable landmarks associated with the legendary Knights Templar. This well-curated package allows travelers to focus on the rich history and beauty of the sites without the hassle of logistical arrangements.
Pricing
For those seeking to embark on the captivating Knights Templar Tour, the pricing structure offers flexibility and value. The tour is priced from €790.00 per group, accommodating up to 8 individuals, allowing travelers to share the experience and split the cost. Notably, this pricing model encourages small groups to explore the tour’s fascinating historical sites and enchanting landscapes without the constraints of a rigid per-person fee.
The Knights Templar Tour’s pricing includes:
- Entrance to Almourol Castle
- Boat ride with an aperitif
- Entrance to the Convent of Christ
- No waiting lines, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Customize the Tour to Our Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized to guests’ preferences. The provider offers flexibility to adjust the duration, stops, and activities based on the group’s interests and needs, ensuring an enjoyable and personalized experience.
Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?
For this tour, you don’t need to bring any special equipment. The tour provides everything you’ll need, like waters, internet on the vehicle, and boat rides. Just come prepared to discover the history and sights of the Knights Templar and Portugal.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour, making it suitable for all travelers. Children are welcome to participate, offering a chance to explore the historic sites and learn about the Knights Templar alongside their family.
Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour?
The tour duration can be extended, but it requires advance notice. Guests can request to spend more time at certain stops or add additional locations to the itinerary. Flexible scheduling allows for a personalized experience to meet the travelers’ needs.
Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English?
The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Guests can choose their preferred language when booking the tour, ensuring a seamless and informative experience throughout the day’s activities.
Recap
The Knights Templar Tour offers a captivating journey through Portugal’s rich Templar heritage.
Visitors explore magnificent castles, convents, and historic towns, seeing the region’s stunning architecture and medieval ambiance.
From scenic boat rides to guided tours, this seamless experience provides a dynamic and memorable glimpse into the country’s captivating past, leaving travelers with a deeper appreciation for Portugal’s enduring Templar legacy.
