Day trip to Tomar
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Tomar, in the heart of Portugal, is perfect for a day trip. Just 90 minutes from Lisbon, it boasts the Convent of Christ, a 12th-century UNESCO site. Visitors can explore its rich architecture, savor traditional dishes like Coelho na Abóbora, and enjoy the cultural Festa dos Tabuleiros. The serene Mata dos Sete Montes park and scenic Castelo de Bode Dam offer relaxation and recreation.
Discovering Tomar's Rich History
Tomar, Portugal, in the district of Santarém, is known for its historical significance and easy access, just an hour from Nazaré and 90 minutes from Lisbon. The 12th-century Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as the Knights Templar headquarters. It features a Renaissance portal, the Manueline window in the Chapter Room, and the Main Cloister’s intricate architecture, showcasing Templar rituals and history.
The town’s cultural traditions, such as the Festa dos Tabuleiros, showcase Tomar’s unique heritage. Held every four years in July, this festival sees women parading with trays of bread and flowers on their heads, reflecting the authentic taste of Portugal’s historical and religious traditions.
For those exploring beyond Tomar, the Castelo de Bode Dam offers opportunities for water sports and relaxation. Additionally, the Almourol Castle, located on a small island in the Tejo River and accessible only by boat, provides a fairytale-like experience. Together, these attractions highlight what to see in Tomar, Portugal, combining historical depth with scenic beauty and cultural richness.
Convent of Christ in Tomar
The Convent of Christ in Tomar, Portugal, originally symbolized the Reconquest but transformed during the Manueline period to reflect Portugal’s openness to other civilizations. This historic site, founded in 1160 by Gualdim Pais, dominates Tomar’s cityscape from its hilltop location and is surrounded by Tomar Castle’s walls. Over five centuries, the Convent evolved into a blend of styles like:
- Romanesque
- Gothic
- Manueline
- Renaissance
- Mannerist
- Baroque
The centerpiece is the 12th-century Oratory of the Templars, inspired by Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre. The Manueline church, connected to the rotunda by an arcade, showcases rich decorations symbolizing the Order of Christ’s wealth. Visitors can explore the Sacristy, Cemetery and Laundry cloisters, Infirmary, Knights Hall, and pharmacy, reflecting various historical periods and architectural influences.
Tourists visiting the Convent of Christ can witness the outstanding universal value recognized by UNESCO. The site preserves its authenticity through careful restoration, maintaining original plans, materials, and historical significance. The Convent hosts the annual meeting of the Order of the Tomar Knights Templar in March and continues to hold religious services. The surrounding Mata dos Sete Montes park offers a peaceful retreat for outdoor activities, enhancing the cultural and historical experience for visitors exploring what to see in Tomar.
Tomar’s local heritage
Tomar offers an authentic taste of traditional Portuguese cuisine, reflecting its rich cultural heritage. The region is renowned for unique game dishes like Coelho na Abóbora (hare baked inside a pumpkin) and Morcela de Arroz (rice-stuffed black pudding with potatoes and greens). These dishes highlight the rustic flavors that define the Ribatejo region’s culinary tradition. If you’re wondering what to do in Tomar, Portugal, experiencing the local cuisine is a must.
For an authentic dining experience, visit Chico Elias, a traditional restaurant just outside Tomar’s city center. Known for its generous portions, this restaurant serves local specialties, including the famed pumpkin-hare dish. Another notable establishment is Taverna Antiqua, a themed restaurant that recreates the medieval ambiance of Tomar. Here, diners can enjoy meals based on historical recipes, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s past.
Café Paraíso, a family-owned institution founded shortly after the 1910 revolution, has been a cornerstone of Tomar’s local culture for over a century. This café, known for its vibrant atmosphere and historical significance, serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. A visit to Tomar wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the local delicacies and the warm, inviting atmosphere of its traditional eateries, making it a true representation of the taste of Portugal.
Tomar's Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Tomar’s Old Town, recognized by UNESCO in 1983, is a testament to Portugal’s rich history and architectural heritage. The Templar Castle and Convent of Christ, the focal points of the town, were established in 1160 by Gualdim Pais, the Provincial Master of the Order of the Temple. These structures showcase a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance, Mannerist, and Baroque styles, making it a unique historical site in the western world.
The Templar Castle, likely built on a Roman worship site, consists of three distinct walled enclosures. The Convent of Christ features the Charola, a 12th-century rotunda inspired by the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. This rotunda, with its octagonal design and intricate decorations, reflects the wealth and influence of the Tomar Portugal Knights Templar. After the Order of the Temple was dissolved in 1314, the Knights of Christ took over, continuing the legacy and expanding the convent with significant Manueline influences.
Tourists visiting Tomar can explore the convent’s various cloisters, including the Gothic cloister commissioned by Prince Henry the Navigator and the elaborate Manueline nave added by King Manuel I. The convent’s architecture tells the story of Portugal’s maritime discoveries, with detailed carvings symbolizing the country’s naval prowess. Visitors can also stroll through the Parque do Laranjal, where remnants of the old town and the monks’ gardens are preserved, offering a serene glimpse into Tomar’s past.
