Tomar and the Knights Templar

Course

Leaving from Lisbon, we make our first stop at the iconic Almourol Castle, built by the Knights Templar on a small island in the middle of the Tagus River, which formed part of the defensive line during the Christian Reconquista.

We continue on to the city of Tomar, founded by Gualdim Pais, Grand Master of the Order in Portugal, who was also responsible for building the castle that houses the Convent of Christ, the Order’s headquarters in Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—extraordinary monuments that we will visit, with particular highlights including the magnificent Charola and the Manueline window.

We will then head to the historic center of Tomar, where we will explore its traditional streets, squares, and buildings associated with the Order of Christ, notably the Church of Santa Maria do Olival, a Gothic church where some of the Order’s masters are buried, including Gualdim Pais himself.

We will return to Lisbon with the certainty of having spent a day filled with stories about one of the most fascinating and powerful religious orders and its decisive role in the founding of Portugal.

Eating in Tomar

Since we’re in Portugal, there’s always time to sample the delicious food and wine! Remember that your guide always has great recommendations!

Tomar is a fantastic destination for food lovers, especially those with a sweet tooth. In addition to cozy restaurants where you can sample the best regional cuisine, the list of local sweets is extensive. They’re true temptations—and extremely hard to resist!

D. Prior-style cabbage, lamprey, shad, cod, kid, tripe, cabidelas, rice blood sausages, rabbit with pumpkin, and snail feijoada are all dishes worth trying.

Tomar’s signature confectionery specialty is the “Fatias de Tomar.” In the pastry shops, you’ll find candied chestnuts, almond cheesecakes, chila pastries, egg strands, and the tantalizing “Bolos de Cama,” from which other, equally alluring treats are derived: “Beija-me Depressa.” Enjoy!