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Postcards: Tomar (PT)

The legend of Knights Templar, rebaptised Order of Christ in Portugal, is well and alive in Tomar. Founded in the 12th century by the 4th Grand Master of the Knights Templar, Gualdim Pais, it is today a town of pilgrimage – it lies on the St James’ way from Portugal – which honours their tradition by hosting the annual Festa Templária, the Knights Templar Festival, where hundreds of local participate and dressed as Knights Templar to parade through the streets.

Tomar

Tomar

The heart of it all is the Convento de Cristo (more on this in an upcoming post), perched above the town, a symbol of the glorious past when the Knights Templar enjoyed great privileges and revered by many. The distinctive cross that came to represent them can be found all over Tomar, and there’s even rumour of hidden treasures of the Order but like any good ol’ legend, who knows its veracity? After Sintra, Tomar may on the surface seems less spectacular but there are enough mysteries to keep a healthy imagination going. ;)

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

Tomar

A map of “historical trail” guided us in our walk around town, which also boasts the oldest synagogue in Portugal, although if I recall correctly, there aren’t currently any Jewish family living in Tomar. Undoubtedly, this is a quiant little place, and given its location (2 hours by regional train, €9.90 per person per journey), a day-trip from Lisbon is possible although staying over for at least a night would make it more pleasant, not to mention getting the first tickets the following morning to visit the Convento de Cristo.



Category: Europe, Portugal, Travel

Tagged: , , ,

2 scribbles & notes

  1. Med says:

    A dog, a cat n great walk ;) the last time I read Knights templar is in a computer game hehehe

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