Tomar Castle: Walk in the Legendary Footsteps of the Knights Templar, Portugal

Nestled in the heart of Portugal, the Castle and Convent of Christ in Tomar is more than just a stunning historical site—it’s a portal into the mysterious and powerful world of the Knights Templar.

My visit to Tomar Castle

On March 28, 2025, my husband and I were picked up in Lisbon by our favorite tour guide, Anastasia. As we drove north, she shared the captivating history of the Templars in Portugal and the pivotal role Tomar Castle played as both a military stronghold and a spiritual sanctuary. When we arrived, the site was refreshingly quiet — no more than a dozen other visitors — allowing us to truly take it all in. I paused to admire the castle’s intricate main doorway and the iconic Manueline window from the outside, but stepping into the Charola (Rotunda) left me awestruck. The richly detailed paintings, shimmering gold leaf, elaborate sculptures, and centuries-old frescoes completely overwhelmed the senses. I circled it slowly, snapping photos and trying — in vain — to etch its ornate beauty into memory. I hope the photos and video capture even a fraction of the magic. If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon, I can’t recommend a visit to Tomar highly enough.

A Glimpse into Tomar Castle’s History

Founded in 1119, in the wake of the First Crusade, the templars’ mission was to protect Christian pilgrims journeying to the Holy Land. Over time, they evolved into a powerful military and religious order, backed by the Catholic Church. They built fortresses, led crusades, and pioneered early banking systems that allowed safe transfers of wealth across continents.

The Templars arrived in Portugal in 1120 to help retake territory from the Moors. In exchange they were given land on which they built the castle of Tomar in 1160 to become their stronghold in Portugal. The fortress was strategically placed to defend against Moorish forces. It became a symbol of their strength, organization, and architectural mastery.

When the order was suppressed in 1312—after dramatic accusations of heresy and secret rituals—Portugal took a clever path rebranding them as the Order of Christ, thus allowing many Templars to continue their work under Portuguese leadership. The Order of Christ was instrumental in Portugal’s maritime expansion. Prince Henry the Navigator was a Grand Master of the order. Their cross was painted on the Portuguese ships that explored the world.

In 1983 the convent of Christ in Tomar was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site:

“Originally a Templar stronghold built in the 12th century, the Convent of Christ in Tomar is a historic and artistic monument of exceptional significance. Expanded over centuries, it represents a symbolic link between the Middle Ages and the modern era, with an outstanding blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance, and Mannerist styles. It stands as a reminder of the role played by the Order of Christ in the Portuguese Age of Discoveries.”
— UNESCO World Heritage Centre

Not to Miss at Tomar Castle and Convent

Charola (Rotunda Church): This 12th-century round church was modeled after the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. Its unique layout and richly decorated interior are breathtaking.

Castle Walls and Towers: Climb up for panoramic views of Tomar and the surrounding countryside. You’ll get a real sense of the strategic placement of this fortress.

The iconic window designed by Diogo de Arruda in the early 16th century is a masterpiece of Manueline style, bursting with maritime and natural motifs like ropes, coral, and twisted branches.

It’s a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries and the most photographed feature in the complex.

Castle Walls and Towers: Climb up for panoramic views of Tomar and the surrounding countryside. You’ll get a real sense of the strategic placement of this fortress.

References Convento Cristo web page, wikipedia