Nestled in the heart of central Portugal on the banks of the Nabão River sits Tomar, a charming town that often flies under the radar of many travelers. Yet, this charming destination offers a perfect blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty that makes it a true hidden gem. Founded in the 12th century by the Knights Templar, Tomar boasts a fascinating past that is evident in its well-preserved monuments and atmospheric streets.
What sets the town of Tomar apart from other Portuguese cities is its unique combination of Templar heritage, Renaissance architecture, and picturesque landscapes. The city’s crown jewel, the Convent of Christ, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that alone justifies a visit. But Tomar offers so much more such as its imposing castle, delightful historic center, the serene Nabão River Park and the colorful Festa dos Tabuleiros festival.
Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone seeking an authentic Portuguese experience, Tomar has something special to see.
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Convent of Christ (Convento de Cristo)
The Convent of Christ (Convento de Cristo) is undoubtedly Tomar’s most famous landmark and must-see attraction. A testament to the city’s historical significance, this extraordinary complex, perched on a hill overlooking the city, was the headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal and later became a monastery of the Order of Christ.
As you approach the convent, you’ll be struck by its imposing fortress-like appearance. The original 12th-century castle was expanded over the centuries, resulting in a fascinating blend of architectural styles. The most iconic feature is the exquisite Manueline window on the western façade of the church, a masterpiece of intricate stonework that symbolises Portugal’s maritime discoveries.
Entering the complex, you’ll find yourself in a series of cloisters, each with its own unique character. The most famous is the Manueline-style Main Cloister, adorned with elaborate nautical motifs and twisted ropes. Don’t miss the Cloister of John III, a Renaissance masterpiece that showcases the evolution of Portuguese architecture.
The heart of the convent is the unique circular church, known as the Charola. This unusual octagonal structure was inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. Its interior is a feast for the eyes, with colorful frescoes, gilded details, and intricate paintings covering every surface.
Allow at least half a day to explore the Convent of Christ thoroughly. The complex is vast, and each corner reveals new wonders. Consider hiring a guide or using an audio guide to fully appreciate the rich history and symbolism embedded in this extraordinary monument. We talk about our visit in the Batalha/Convent of Christ Episode! Listen here!
Castle of Tomar (Castelo de Tomar)
Intertwined with the Convent of Christ is Tomar Castle, an impressive fortress that dates back to 1160. Built by Gualdim Pais, the first Grand Master of the Knights Templar in Portugal, this castle played a crucial role in the defense of the newly formed Portuguese kingdom against Moorish invasions.
The castle’s strategic location atop a hill offers panoramic views of Tomar and the surrounding countryside. As you walk along the well-preserved walls, you can imagine the medieval knights standing guard, protecting their sacred headquarters.
Don’t miss the chance to climb the castle keep for even more spectacular views. On a clear day, you can see for miles across the Ribatejo region. The keep also houses a small museum with artifacts related to the castle’s history and the Knights Templar.
As you explore the castle grounds, you’ll come across various defensive structures, including towers, battlements, and the main gate with its imposing portcullis. The peaceful gardens within the walls provide a pleasant contrast to the military architecture and offer a perfect spot for a quiet moment of reflection.
Historic Center of Town
Descending from the hill of the Convent and Castle, you’ll find yourself in Tomar’s enchanting historic center. This well-preserved town center is a delight to explore, with its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional Portuguese houses, and charming squares.
Start your walk at the Praça da República, the main square and heart of Tomar. You’ll know you are there when you see the statue of Gualdim Pais, founder of Tomar., you’ll find the striking Igreja de São João Baptista, a 15th-century Gothic church with beautiful Manueline elements.
The square is also home to the old Town Hall, now a tourist office, and several cafés where you can enjoy a coffee while people-watching. Might we recommend the Taverna Antiqua for an authentic medieval experience.
As you wander through the streets, keep an eye out for the many examples of Manueline architecture, characterized by its elaborate stone carvings and maritime motifs. The Rua Serpa Pinto, the main shopping street, is a short walk from the square and is lined with traditional shops that provides a glimpse into everyday life in Tomar.
Make sure you look out for…
Don’t miss the Synagogue of Tomar, one of the best-preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal. Built in the 15th century, it now houses a small museum dedicated to Jewish history in Portugal. The simple yet elegant interior, with its four columns supporting vaulted ceilings, is a testament to the once-thriving Jewish community in Tomar.
For a taste of local life, visit the Mercado Municipal, Tomar’s covered market. Here, you can find fresh produce, regional cheeses, and other local specialties. It’s an excellent place to pick up ingredients for a picnic or to sample some Portuguese delicacies.
As you explore, you’ll come across numerous churches, each with its own story. The Igreja de Santa Maria do Olival, for instance, was once the pantheon of the Templar Grand Masters and later of the Masters of the Order of Christ.
End your walk at the Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes, a beautiful park at the foot of the Convent of Christ. This “National Forest of the Seven Hills” offers shaded paths, fountains, and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
Nabão River Park
One of Tomar’s most charming features is the Nabão River, which runs through the heart of the city. The Nabão River Park (Parque do Nabão) is a beautifully landscaped area that offers a refreshing escape from the urban environment and provides a great place for leisurely walks, picnics, or simply relaxing by the water.
The park stretches along both banks of the river, connected by several picturesque bridges. The most famous of these is the Old Bridge (Ponte Velha), a medieval stone bridge that has become one of Tomar’s iconic landmarks. From the bridge, you can enjoy lovely views of the river and the colorful buildings lining its banks.
As you stroll through the park, you’ll come across various points of interest. The Mouchão Island, a small artificial island in the middle of the river, is home to a beautiful garden and the Mouchão Park Restaurant, housed in a charming 16th-century building that was once a watermill. The restaurant’s terrace offers a romantic setting for dinner with river views.
The park is also home to the River Nabão Waterwheel, a fully functional wooden waterwheel that harks back to Tomar’s industrial past. These wheels were once common along the river, powering mills and other machinery. Today, the restored wheel serves as a picturesque reminder of the city’s heritage.
For nature lovers, the park offers a variety of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for ducks, swans, and other birds that call the river home. The well-maintained gardens feature a diverse array of plants and trees, making it a pleasant spot year-round.
If you’re visiting in the warmer months, consider renting a pedal boat to explore the river from a different perspective. It’s a fun and relaxing way to spend an afternoon, especially for families with children.
The Nabão River Park is not just a natural oasis but also a cultural hub. Throughout the year, it hosts various events and festivals, from open-air concerts to food fairs. Check the local event calendar to see what might be happening during your visit.
Festas do Tabuleiros of Tomar
If you’re fortunate enough to visit Tomar in early July of every four years, you’ll have the chance to witness one of Portugal’s most unique and colorful festivals: the Festa dos Tabuleiros (Festival of the Trays). This centuries-old tradition, also known as Festa do Divino Espírito Santo (Feast of the Divine Holy Spirit), transforms Tomar into a riot of colors, flowers, and celebration.
The rituals of the Festa dos Tabuleiros date back to the 14th century and blend pagan fertility rites with Christian tradition. The highlight of the festival is the Grand Procession, where hundreds of women parade through the streets balancing elaborate “tabuleiros” on their heads. These tabuleiros are towering headdresses made of 30 stacked pieces of bread, adorned with flowers, and crowned with a cross or a dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit.
What to expect during the festival
The preparation for the festival begins months in advance, with the entire community coming together to create the intricate tabuleiros. Each one is a work of art, standing about 1.5 meters tall and weighing up to 15 kilograms. The women who carry them train for months to perfect their balance and posture.
During the festival, Tomar’s streets are decorated with colorful paper flowers and banners. The air is filled with the scent of fresh bread and fragrant blooms. In addition to the Grand Procession, the festival includes various other events such as the Parade of the Crowns, bull running, fireworks, and folk dancing.
One of the most moving moments of the festival is the “Pêza,” where loaves of bread are distributed to the poor, echoing the festival’s historical roots as a celebration of charity and community.
Even if you can’t visit during the Festa dos Tabuleiros, you can learn about this fascinating tradition at the Municipal Museum, which has a permanent exhibition dedicated to the festival. The museum displays historic tabuleiros and offers insight into the festival’s evolution over the centuries.
The Festa dos Tabuleiros is not just a spectacle for tourists; it’s a deeply meaningful celebration for the people of Tomar, embodying their history, faith, and community spirit. If you have the chance to experience it, you’ll witness a truly unique aspect of Portuguese cultural heritage.
Almourol Castle
While not technically in Tomar, the nearby Almourol Castle (Castelo de Almourol) is a must-visit attraction that perfectly complements a trip to the city. Located about 30 kilometers southwest of Tomar, this small but stunning castle sits on a tiny island in the middle of the Tagus River, creating a scene straight out of a fairytale.
Built in the 12th century by the Knights Templar on the site of an earlier fortification, Almourol Castle played a crucial role in the defense of central Portugal during the Reconquista. Its strategic position on the river allowed the Templars to control river traffic and defend against potential invasions.
To reach the castle, you’ll need to take a short boat ride from the riverbank. As you approach, the sight of the castle rising dramatically from the waters is truly breathtaking. The isolated location and well-preserved medieval architecture make it easy to imagine yourself transported back in time to the age of knights and chivalry.
While the castle’s interior is relatively simple, the views from its walls are spectacular. You can walk along the ramparts, climb the keep, and explore the small courtyard. Information panels throughout the site provide insights into the castle’s history and the role of the Knights Templar in the region.
Almourol Castle is particularly beautiful at sunset when the golden light bathes the stone walls and reflects off the river. If you’re a photography enthusiast, this is a prime opportunity for some stunning shots.
The area around the castle is also worth exploring. There’s a small visitor center on the mainland with additional information about the castle and the Templars. The surrounding park offers pleasant walking trails and picnic areas, making it the perfect place to relax before or after your castle visit.
Combining a visit to Almourol Castle with your trip to Tomar provides a fuller understanding of the Templar presence in this part of Portugal. The two sites, along with the Convent of Christ, form a triangle of Templar heritage that tells the story of this enigmatic order and its role in Portuguese history.
Ready for a Visit to Tomar?
Tomar may not be as well-known as Lisbon or Porto, but it offers a unique and rewarding experience for travelers seeking to delve deeper into Portugal’s rich history and culture. From the awe-inspiring walls of the Convento de Cristo to the charming streets of the old town, from the tranquil beauty of the Nabão River Park to the spectacle of the Festa dos Tabuleiros, Tomar has something to captivate every visitor.
What we love about the city is the authentic feel of a city from the middle ages. As you walk though the streets you see the symbols of the Templar Knights in the sidewalk and can look up and see the medieval castle keeping guard.
The city’s Templar heritage, beautifully preserved architecture, and warm local hospitality make it a destination that lingers in the memory long after you’ve left. Whether you’re spending a day trip from Lisbon or using Tomar as a base to explore central Portugal, you’ll find yourself enchanted by this hidden gem.
As you walk in the footsteps of knights and kings, savor local cuisine in riverside restaurants, and immerse yourself in the laid-back rhythm of life in Tomar, you’ll discover a side of Portugal that many travelers miss. So why not add Tomar to your Portuguese itinerary? Come and uncover the secrets of this remarkable city for yourself – you won’t be disappointed.
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**Wandering Works for Us contains affiliate links is part of Viator, Get Your Guide, Booking.com, trip advisor and Amazon Services Associates Program LLC. If you make a purchase using one of the links, I may make a compensation at no extra cost to you.
Shelley is a full time traveler, blogger and podcaster currently living in Portugal with her wife, 2 dogs and a cat. She is a former history teacher originally from Winston-Salem, NC but wanted to see what life was like abroad. Now she travels all over Portugal and Europe writing about what she sees and does and tells you all kinds of fun stories on the podcast at Wandering Works for Us.