TOMAR

Located at the heart of the old town, the charming Praça da República square invites visitors to savour a leisurely lunch or coffee amidst picturesque surroundings. Adorned with intricate diamond-patterned tiling, the square is graced by a statue honouring the town's founder, Gualdim Pais. Here, amidst the historic ambience, stand impressive 17th-century structures, including the iconic old town hall, distinguished by its charismatic loggia boasting three elegant arches.

CHURCH OF SÃO JOÃO BAPTISA

Opposite the old town hall, on the Praça do República, lies the recently restored Church of São João Baptista (John the Baptist). With origins tracing back to the 12th century as a meeting place for the Knights Templar, this architectural gem underwent reconstruction in the 15th century under the patronage of Dom Manuel, reaching completion in 1510. Adorned with exquisite Manueline ornaments, the church's north door features depictions of boars, dogs, and wild asses, while the western entrance exudes a more understated charm. The adjacent bell tower, with its distinctive octagonal profile atop a square base, adds to the church's allure. Step inside to admire the captivating artworks, including six panels painted by Gregório Lopes, showcasing masterful craftsmanship and depicting scenes such as The Last Supper.

Perched majestically atop a lush hill, Tomar's premier attraction offers unrivalled panoramic vistas of the town, cementing its status as a quintessential architectural gem in Portugal. Situated adjacent to the convent's entrance lies the mysterious 12th-century Templar Castle, an enduring symbol of the region's rich heritage. Once serving as a bastion of defence along the critical route between Santarém and Coimbra, its imposing crenellations stand as a testament to its formidable past.

Commissioned under the watchful eye of Gualdim Pais, Master of the Knights Templar, construction of the castle commenced on March 1st, 1160. Evolving over the centuries, its irregular walls expanded to encompass significant features such as the Charola, or Round Church, alongside the Knights Templar's residential quarters and the bustling parade ground. As a cornerstone of Tomar's historical legacy, this iconic landmark continues to captivate visitors with its timeless allure and storied past.

THE CHAROLA

Renowned as a masterpiece of Templar architecture, the Charola stands as an emblem of Tomar's rich heritage, showcasing a unique polygonal design reminiscent of Jerusalem's revered Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Throughout the ages, this iconic structure has undergone significant enhancements overseen by influential figures such as Henry the Navigator and King Manuel I.

Under Manuel I's patronage, the Charola experienced a remarkable transformation, with notable additions, including the monumental triumphal arch that seamlessly connects it to the Manueline church. These enhancements not only enhance the Charola's architectural grandeur but also underscore its profound historical significance, solidifying its status as a must-visit attraction.

The Chapter House Window stands as a remarkable showcase of Manueline architecture, a testament to the craftsmanship of Diogo de Arruda. Positioned on the west façade of the Manueline church, this architectural marvel was meticulously crafted between 1510 and 1513. Referred to as Janela do Capítulo in Portuguese, it is adorned entirely with intricate maritime imagery.

Within the elaborate design, one can discern motifs symbolising seashells, coral, interwinding ropes, and the royal coat of arms, creating a mesmerising tapestry of symbolism. The intricate details of the window evoke a sense of mystery, leaving visitors to ponder if there's a hidden message encoded within the stonework.

As a cherished relic of Portugal's architectural heritage, the Chapter House Window beckons visitors to marvel at its beauty and unravel the secrets concealed within its intricate motifs.

THE CLOISTERS

The Cloister Principal, a testament to the architectural prowess of João de Castilho, stands as an enduring symbol of heritage and craftsmanship. Erected between 1530 and 1533, this historic structure has stood the test of time, retaining its magnificence to this day.

Under the reign of João III, the cloister underwent partial reconstruction, a project that reached its culmination in 1562. During this period, the Ceras terrace received special attention, featuring a remarkable ceiling completed by Filipe Terzi, an esteemed Italian architect renowned for his exceptional contributions to the Renaissance era.

Terzi's work on the Ceras terrace ceiling is widely acclaimed and celebrated as a masterpiece that exemplifies the splendour of Renaissance architecture. As a cherished component of Tomar's architectural heritage, the Cloister Principal and its adorned terrace continue to captivate visitors with their timeless beauty and historical significance.

High Season Daily: 09h00 - 18h30 | Low Season Daily: 09h00 - 17h00
Adult: €6.00, OAP & concessionary: €3.00, Child under 14: FREE
Convento de Cristo, Igreja do Castelo Templário 2300-000. Tomar, Portugal.
39º 36' 12.6" N | 08º 25' 08.5" W
+351 249 315 089 | convento.cristo@igespar.pt |  Website

The Templars were known for their pursuit of knowledge, even seeking wisdom from Judaism. Following the expulsion of Jews from Spain, a community was established in Tomar, where they built the synagogue of Tomar, one of Portugal's oldest. Situated in the heart of old Tomar, on Rua Dr Joaquim Jacinto, this synagogue was constructed between 1430 and 1460 under the patronage of Dom Henrique. Today, the building serves as the Abraão Zacuto Luso-Hebrew Museum.

Named in honour of Abraham Zacuto (c.1450-c.1522), a renowned mathematician and author of the acclaimed Almanach Perpetuum, the museum is housed within the synagogue. Published in Leiria in 1496, Zacuto's work contained mathematical tables widely utilised by Portuguese navigators during the early 16th century and beyond. The museum showcases various archaeological discoveries, offering insights into the medieval Jewish presence in Portugal.

Additionally, the museum features a modest collection of contemporary artefacts illustrating Jewish life, generously donated by individuals and Jewish organisations worldwide.

73 Rua Dr. Joaquim Jacinto, 2300, Tomar, Portugal. | 39º 36' 11.6" N | 08º 24' 49.9" W
+351 249 329 823 | turismo@cm-tomar.pt