Tomar Convent of Christ: An Unparalleled Historical Gem
Tomar Convent of Christ is an awe-inspiring historical site located in the Portuguese town of Tomar, in the district of Santarém. It is a stunningly beautiful convent and fortress complex, originally founded by the Knights Templar in 1160. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the best-preserved and most important historical monuments in Portugal, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring Portuguese history and culture.
History of Tomar Convent of Christ
The Tomar Convent of Christ was founded in 1160 by Gualdim Pais, a Grand Master of the Knights Templar. The original purpose of the complex was to provide a secure refuge for the Knights Templar, a monastic military order founded in 1119 to protect Christian pilgrims on their journey to the Holy Land.
Over the centuries, the site has been expanded and renovated, and today it stands as a stunning testament to the power and influence of the Knights Templar. The convent and fortress complex are made up of a series of elaborate buildings, including the Church of the Holy Trinity, the Charola, the Cloister of the Sacristy, the Main Cloister, and the Royal Palace.
What to See at Tomar Convent of Christ
The Tomar Convent of Christ is filled with stunning works of art and architecture, and a visit here is sure to be a memorable one. The Church of the Holy Trinity is the most impressive building in the complex, with its extravagant Manueline-style architecture and stunning stained-glass windows. The Charola is another highlight, with its octagonal design and intricate carvings.
The Main Cloister is another fascinating area to explore, with its magnificent Gothic and Renaissance columns. The Cloister of the Sacristy is also worth a visit, with its Baroque and Renaissance paintings and sculptures. The Royal Palace is the last major building in the complex, with its stunning gardens and courtyards.
Getting to Tomar Convent of Christ
Tomar Convent of Christ is located in the town of Tomar, which is just over an hour away from Lisbon by car. There are also regular buses from Lisbon to Tomar, and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, visitors can take a train from Lisbon to Santa Apolónia station, and then take a bus to Tomar.
When to Visit Tomar Convent of Christ
The Tomar Convent of Christ is open all year round, and it is best to visit in the morning or late afternoon, when the crowds are at their lowest. During the summer months, the complex is especially beautiful, as the lush gardens and courtyards are in full bloom.
Conclusion
Tomar Convent of Christ is an incredibly impressive and unique historical site. Its stunning buildings, gardens, and courtyards are a testament to the power and influence of the Knights Templar, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring Portuguese history and culture. With its convenient location and year-round opening hours, it is the perfect place for a memorable day trip.