Exploring the Historic Charms of Tomar, Portugal

Tomar's Unexpected Treasures

Our day began, as most do here, with breakfast at Hotel Dos Templarios. The spread was as delightful as ever, setting us up perfectly for a day of exploration. The pastries, especially, have become a morning highlight – a sweet start before delving into the day’s adventures.

First on our list was the Synagogue of Tomar. Tucked away on a narrow street, it's easy to miss, but stepping inside felt like travelling back in time.
The Synagogue of Tomar, a building with a rich and layered history, was built in the 15th century. It stands as one of Portugal's best-preserved medieval synagogues, offering a tangible link to the country's Jewish heritage. As I walked through the small, quadrangular building, I couldn't help but marvel at the resilience of history. The architecture, though simple, spoke volumes, with its four columns representing the Matriarchs of Israel and the vaulted ceiling creating an atmosphere of reverence. What struck me most was the ingenuity in the design – the holes in the upper corners, once holding clay jars to amplify sound during services. It’s a testament to the community that once thrived here, a community that contributed to Prince Henry's vision of the Portuguese Discoveries. The building has served many purposes over the centuries, from a prison to a Catholic chapel, before being rediscovered and turned into the Abraão Zacuto Luso-Hebraic Museum by Dr. Samuel Schwarz, a Polish Jew who recognized its importance. It now houses a collection of medieval tombstones and Hebrew inscriptions, preserving the legacy of Portuguese Jews. Walking through it, I thought about my own heritage, the stories of my ancestors in Évora, and felt a profound connection to the past. Olivia was equally moved, taking photos and making notes, her graphic designer's eye drawn to the subtle details of the architecture.

After soaking in the history of the synagogue, we decided to lighten the mood with a visit to the Museu dos Fósforos – Aquiles da Mota Lima, or the Matchbox Museum. Now, I know what you might be thinking: a museum dedicated to matchboxes? But trust me, it was far more fascinating than it sounds!
This quirky museum, housed in the 17th-century Convento de São Francisco, is a testament to one man's passion. Aquiles da Mota Lima, a businessman from Tomar, started collecting matchboxes in the 1950s after a trip to London for Queen Elizabeth II's coronation. What began as a simple request from an American woman turned into a lifelong obsession, resulting in a collection of over 43,000 matchbooks from more than 120 countries!
Walking through the seven rooms of the museum, we were transported around the world. Each matchbox told a story – of a culture, a brand, a historical event. From vintage advertisements to political propaganda, the collection was a fascinating snapshot of 20th-century history. Olivia, with her keen eye for design, was particularly captivated by the intricate artwork and typography on the matchboxes. I found myself drawn to the stories behind the collection, the dedication of Aquiles da Mota Lima, and the surprising ways in which something as mundane as a matchbox could reflect the world at large.

By lunchtime, we were both feeling peckish, so we headed to A Brasinha Restaurant, recommended by several locals. The aroma wafting from the kitchen was immediately enticing, a mix of grilled meats and savory spices.
A Brasinha is a typical Portuguese restaurant known for its friendly service and traditional dishes. We settled into a cozy corner, and I ordered the veal chops, while Olivia opted for the tuna steak. The food was hearty and delicious, the portions generous, and the prices reasonable. It felt like a true taste of Tomar, a comforting and authentic meal that warmed us from the inside out. We chatted with the staff, who were welcoming and eager to share their recommendations. It’s these kinds of interactions that make travelling so rewarding, the chance to connect with people and experience a place through their eyes.

Travel is more than just seeing places; it's about experiencing them, feeling them, and letting them change you.

After lunch, we strolled through the town, eventually stumbling upon Fixe Gift Store - Loja Tomar. It was the perfect place to pick up a few souvenirs. Unlike the usual tourist traps, this shop was filled with unique, locally made crafts and artisanal products. Olivia, of course, was in her element, browsing through the jewelry and ceramics, while I admired the intricate woodwork and regional delicacies. We ended up buying a few small gifts for friends and family back home, tokens of our time in Tomar.

As evening approached, we decided to try Clandestino for dinner, another local favorite. The restaurant had a cozy, intimate atmosphere, with soft lighting and rustic décor.
Clandestino is known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and affordable prices. We started with a cheese and ham plate, followed by cod roe and chicken tidbits – all delicious and authentically Portuguese. The staff were friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's adventures, the hidden gems we had unearthed, and the warmth of the people we had met. It was a day that perfectly captured the spirit of Tomar – a blend of history, culture, and genuine hospitality.

As we walked back to the hotel, the air was filled with the scent of jasmine and the sound of distant music. The city felt peaceful and welcoming, a place where we could truly relax and be ourselves. We talked about tomorrow's itinerary, which includes a visit to the Aqueduto do Convento de Cristo - Troço Pegões Altos and the Igreja de São João Baptista. I am looking forward to exploring more of Tomar's architectural wonders. We might even check out Brewtall, a local bar, for a nightcap.

Back at the hotel, I started writing this blog post, capturing the essence of our day before it faded into memory. Olivia, meanwhile, was editing photos, eager to share our experiences with the world. As I sit here now, reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Tomar has surprised and delighted us in so many ways, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. It's moments like these, shared with the people I love, that make life so rich and meaningful. And as I always say, “home is people. Not a place.”