Private Day Tour Knights Templar Convent of Christ Almourol

Uncover the captivating legacy of the Knights Templar on this private day tour. Explore the stunning Convent of Christ in Tomar and the enchanting Almourol Castle, surrounded by the Tagus River. Journey through Portugal’s historical treasures, savoring local delicacies and delving into the rich history, all guided by knowledgeable experts. This 8-hour adventure promises to transport you to a world of intriguing secrets and captivating discoveries.

Key Points

• This private day tour focuses on the historical legacy of the Knights Templar in Portugal, with visits to sites like Almourol Castle and the Convent of Christ in Tomar.
• The tour includes a boat ride on the Tagus River to reach Almourol Castle, a 12th-century fortress with remnants of the Knights Templar’s influence.
• In Constância, the tour explores the birthplace of poet Luís de Camões and offers the opportunity to sample local desserts.
• The tour includes a guided visit to the 15th-century Synagogue in Tomar, showcasing the heritage of the Jewish community in the region.
• The tour culminates with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ in Tomar, featuring Manueline architecture and the Charola.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

This private day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Knights Templar’s historical legacy in Portugal.

Priced from $436.17 per group (up to 3 people), the 8-hour tour is accessible to wheelchair users and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Conducted in English, Portuguese, or Spanish by highly rated guides, the experience includes visits to Almourol Castle, the town of Constância, the Santa Maria do Olival Church, and the Convent of Christ in Tomar, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Guests can expect personalized attention, regional cuisine, and memorable insights into Portugal’s fascinating past.

Highlights of the Itinerary

The private day tour kicks off with a pickup in Lisbon or Oeiras, taking guests on a captivating journey through the Knights Templar’s historical legacy.

The first stop is Almourol Castle, where visitors enjoy a boat ride on the Tagus River, a guided tour, and stunning views.

Visitors begin their journey with a boat ride on the Tagus River, a guided tour, and breathtaking vistas of Almourol Castle.

In Constância, the group learns about the ties to Portugal’s renowned poet, Luís de Camões, and samples local desserts.

Next, they visit the Santa Maria do Olival Church for a guided tour and photo opportunity.

The tour culminates in Tomar, featuring a regional lunch, a Synagogue tour, and the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ.

Exploring Almourol Castle

Almourol Castle, a striking 12th-century fortress, stands majestically atop a rocky island in the heart of the Tagus River. Guests reach the castle by taking a short boat ride, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

During the guided tour, visitors explore:

• Sturdy stone walls and towers that once guarded the property

• Picturesque courtyards and chapels that showcase the castle’s architectural splendor

• Panoramic vistas from the castle’s elevated position, revealing the river and surrounding countryside

• Remnants of the Knights Templar’s influence, who controlled the site during the Crusades.

Discovering Constância

After exploring the historic Almourol Castle, the tour progresses to the charming town of Constância. Guests are introduced to the literary connections of Constância, as it was the birthplace of the renowned Portuguese poet, Luís de Camões. During the stop, visitors have the opportunity to sample local desserts and gain insights into the town’s history.

| Destination | Duration |

| — | — |

| Constância | 20 minutes |

| Key Highlights |

| – Birthplace of Luís de Camões |

| – Dessert tasting |

| – Historical insights |

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Visiting Santa Maria Do Olival Church

Next, the tour guides visitors to the Santa Maria do Olival Church. This historic church is associated with Gualdim Pais, the founder of Tomar and a prominent figure in the Knights Templar.

The tour includes:

• A guided tour, providing insights into the church’s architecture and its role in the Templar legacy.

• Opportunities to admire the intricate stone carvings and Gothic design elements.

• A chance to learn about the church’s historical significance and its connection to the Knights Templar.

• Time for visitors to capture photos of the impressive façade and interior.

Experiencing Tomar

Following the tour of Santa Maria do Olival Church, the journey continues to the historic town of Tomar.

In Tomar, the group enjoys a regional lunch before visiting the Synagogue and the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site with strong ties to the Knights Templar.

The Synagogue provides insights into the local Jewish community, while the Convent of Christ, built by the Knights Templar, stands as a testament to their architectural and spiritual legacy.

The tour’s immersion in Tomar’s rich history and cultural heritage leaves a lasting impression on the participants.

Insights Into the Synagogue of Tomar

As the tour progresses to the historic town of Tomar, the group visits the Synagogue, providing insightful glimpses into the once-thriving Jewish community.

The Synagogue, dating back to the 15th century, offers a window into Tomar’s rich cultural heritage:

The 15th-century Synagogue provides a glimpse into Tomar’s vibrant cultural legacy, showcasing architectural splendor and the resilience of its Jewish community.

• Intricate architectural details, including decorative stonework and ornate arched windows, showcase the craftsmanship of the era.

• Informative displays and artifacts chronicle the vibrant Jewish presence in Tomar, from religious practices to daily life.

• Discussions of the community’s persecution and eventual expulsion from Portugal add poignant historical context.

• Visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience and contributions of Tomar’s Jewish citizens.

Exploring the Convent of Christ

After exploring the historic Synagogue, the tour continues to the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ, a captivating site with deep connections to the Knights Templar. This impressive fortress-like structure offers a glimpse into the rich history of the order. Visitors can marvel at the Manueline architecture, intricate carvings, and the famous Charola, an octagonal church that was the centerpiece of the Templar’s spiritual life.

| Key Features | Description |

| — | — |

| Manueline Architecture | Ornate style reflecting the Age of Discovery |

| Charola | Octagonal church, spiritual heart of the Templar order |

| Templar History | Site played a crucial role in the order’s activities |

| UNESCO Designation | Recognized for its outstanding universal value |

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Tour Group Size Limits?

The tour group size is limited to up to 3 people per group, according to the pricing details provided. The tour can accommodate small private groups for a personalized experience.

Do the Tour Guides Speak Any Other Languages Besides English?

The tour guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish, according to the tour overview. This allows them to cater to a variety of international travelers on the private day tour.

Is the Boat Ride to Almourol Castle Included in the Tour Price?

Yes, the boat ride to Almourol Castle is included in the tour price. The tour overview states that the price includes the "Boat ride on Tagus River" to access the castle.

Can the Tour Be Extended or Customized for Additional Fees?

Yes, the tour can be extended or customized for additional fees. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator and have the itinerary tailored to their interests, with potential add-ons or modifications to the standard tour.

Are Any COVID-19 Safety Measures in Place During the Tour?

The tour operator has implemented enhanced COVID-19 safety measures, including mandatory masks, social distancing, and frequent sanitization of vehicles. Guests are asked to follow all local health guidelines during the tour.

The Sum Up

This captivating Private Day Tour immerses visitors in the captivating legacy of the Knights Templar. From the enchanting Almourol Castle to the remarkable Convent of Christ in Tomar, this journey showcases Portugal’s rich history and cultural treasures. Knowledgeable experts guide the way, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for all.

You can check availability for your dates here: