Embark on an exhilarating journey through the captivating legacy of the Knights Templar in the historic town of Tomar. Enjoy the region’s rich heritage as you venture beyond Lisbon’s bustling streets, unraveling the secrets of this influential order. From the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ to the imposing Almourol Castle, each site unveils a new layer of the Templars’ enduring influence. With expert guides leading the way and a delectable local lunch to fuel the adventure, this small-group experience promises an unforgettable day of discovery. Prepare to be enthralled by the Templars’ captivating story and the profound impact they’ve left on Portugal’s landscape.
Key Points
- A full-day guided tour from Lisbon to explore the legacy of the Knights Templar in the Tomar region.
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ and Almourol Castle to learn about the Templars’ influential role in the area.
- Small-group experience capped at 15 participants with live commentary available in multiple languages.
- Included transportation, entrance fees, and lunch to provide a hassle-free and immersive tour experience.
- Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Details
Spanning a duration of 8 hours, this full-day guided tour from Lisbon offers a small-group experience, capping attendance at 15 participants, with live commentary available in Spanish, English, French, and Portuguese.
Guests will explore the legacy of the Knights Templar, exploring the Tomar region and UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ. They’ll also uncover the history of Almourol Castle, a medieval fortress perched atop a rocky island.
Throughout the day, travelers will be treated to seamless transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with all entrance fees, a knowledgeable tour guide, and even a tasty included lunch rounding out the comprehensive package. It’s an immersive, well-curated adventure into Portugal’s storied past.
Highlights of the Tour
This well-curated tour offers a deep exploration of the Knights Templar’s legacy, beginning with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ, a stunning architectural marvel that serves as the centerpiece of the experience.
Guests will be captivated by the intricate carvings, towering walls, and the order’s rich history woven throughout the complex.
The journey continues with a discovery of Almourol Castle, a medieval fortress perched atop a rocky island that once served as a strategic stronghold for the Knights Templar.
Along the way, travelers will:
- Explore the Templar’s influential role in the region
- Admire the castle’s impressive defensive structures
- Soak in the picturesque landscapes along the Tagus River
- Learn about the order’s code of conduct and religious practices
- Gain a deeper appreciation for this pivotal chapter in Portuguese history
Included in the Tour
The tour includes a comprehensive package that ensures travelers experience the highlights of the Tomar region with ease and comfort. Complimentary pickup and drop-off at accommodations in Lisbon provide a seamless start and end to the day, while air-conditioned transportation whisks guests between the historic sites. An expert tour guide leads the small group, sharing insights and histories in multiple languages. Entrance fees to the Convent of Christ and Almourol Castle are included, providing access to these UNESCO-recognized landmarks. Lunch is also provided, allowing travelers to refuel and recharge during the full-day adventure.
| Included | Highlights | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Pickup/Drop-off | Explore Tomar | Convent of Christ |
| Air-Conditioned Transport | Knights Templar History | Almourol Castle |
| Expert Tour Guide | Multilingual Guide | Lunch Provided |
Pricing and Booking Information
The tour’s price is $109.29 per person, and travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.
Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for participants.
Booking this immersive Tomar Templar experience is easy and convenient:
- Reserve your spot with a few simple clicks
- No need to pay upfront – secure your place and pay later
- Enjoy the freedom to cancel up to 24 hours prior without any penalties
- Explore the Knights Templar legacy at your own pace, with the option to change plans if needed
- Hassle-free booking process ensures a seamless start to your Lisbon adventure
Meeting Point
VIP Executive Éden Aparthotel (Praça dos Restauradores 24, 1250-187 Lisboa) serves as the convenient meeting point for this captivating Tomar Templar full-day tour from Lisbon.
Situated in the heart of the city, this modern aparthotel provides an easy-to-find and centralized location for participants to begin their exploration of the Knights Templar legacy.
The grand façade and inviting lobby of the Éden set the stage for the day’s adventure, as guests gather before setting out to uncover the fascinating history and stunning architecture of Tomar and its Convent of Christ.
From this well-connected starting point, the tour will whisk participants away to explore the region’s Templar heritage and immerse them in the captivating stories that have endured for centuries.
Exploring the Knights Templar Legacy
From the modern elegance of the VIP Executive Éden Aparthotel, the tour group embarks on a captivating journey to uncover the rich legacy of the Knights Templar in the Tomar region. As they depart Lisbon, the guide sets the stage, regaling participants with tales of the famed military order’s influential presence in Portugal and the enduring mark they’ve left on the landscape.
The tour explores:
- The UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ, a stunning example of Templar architecture and a testament to their religious devotion
- Almourol Castle, a dramatic riverside fortress that served as a strategic outpost for the Knights
Insights into the Templars’ role in Portugal’s history, from their military might to their financial and political power.
The lasting influence of the order’s symbols and iconography on the region’s art and culture.
The opportunity to walk in the footsteps of these legendary warrior-monks and uncover the mysteries of their past.
Visiting the Convent of Christ
As the tour group approaches the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ, they’re immediately struck by its commanding presence, a majestic fortress-like structure that stands as a testament to the Knights Templar‘s enduring legacy in the region.
The guide eagerly points out the intricate Manueline architectural details, a unique blend of Gothic and Moorish influences that adorn the convent’s façade.
The group is ushered through the grand entrance, their footsteps echoing in the cavernous interior.
They explore the stunning Templar castle, marveling at the vaulted ceilings, ornate chapels, and the famous Charola, an incredible circular church that was once the centerpiece of the Templar stronghold.
The tour offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and power of the Knights Templar in Tomar.
Discovering Almourol Castle
After exploring the magnificent Convent of Christ, the tour group eagerly boards the air-conditioned vehicle to venture forth and uncover the next captivating gem – Almourol Castle. Perched atop a small island in the middle of the Tagus River, this mighty medieval fortress looms before them, its imposing stone walls and towers casting an indelible impression.
The guide provides a captivating narrative, delving into the castle’s rich history and the strategic importance it held during the Reconquista. The group crosses a narrow bridge to reach the island, their footsteps echoing against the ancient walls.
Once inside, they marvel at the well-preserved keep, the ornate chapel, and the breathtaking views that stretch across the serene river.
Constructed in the 12th century by the Knights Templar, Almourol Castle played a crucial role in defending against Moorish incursions. Meticulously restored and maintained as a national monument, the castle offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside, a true testament to the engineering prowess of its medieval builders.
Recap
This immersive Knights Templar tour showcases the enduring legacy of the legendary order in Tomar. Travelers’ll explore the Templars’ religious practices and code of conduct at the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ.
Witnessing the imposing Almourol Castle, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the Templars’ influential role in Portugal’s history.
With seamless transportation, expert guidance, and a included lunch, this small-group experience provides a comprehensive introduction to this pivotal chapter of the nation’s past.
