Exploring the Historic Charms of Tomar, Portugal

A Knight's Tale in Tomar

Our journey to Tomar, Portugal, began with a sense of excitement and anticipation. After all, this was a place steeped in history, a town that had witnessed the rise and fall of knights, the construction of magnificent convents, and the ebb and flow of centuries of culture. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of it all, and I couldn't wait to share the experience with Olivia.

The day started, as all good days on vacation should, with a leisurely breakfast at Hotel Dos Templarios. The spread was impressive, a delightful mix of local pastries, fresh fruit, and hearty breads. Fueled up for a day of exploration, Olivia and I set out to conquer the Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dominates Tomar's skyline. As we approached the Convent, its grandeur became even more apparent. The sheer scale of the building, a testament to centuries of architectural evolution, was breathtaking. The Convent of Christ is not just a building; it's a journey through time, with elements of Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance, and Baroque styles seamlessly interwoven. The history of the Convento de Cristo is as captivating as its architecture. Originally a 12th-century Templar stronghold, it later became the headquarters of the Order of Christ, playing a pivotal role in Portugal's maritime discoveries. Walking through its hallowed halls, I could almost hear the echoes of knights preparing for battle and explorers charting new courses across the ocean. The heart of the Convent, the Charola, is an architectural marvel. This round church, inspired by the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, exudes an aura of mystery and reverence. The intricate details of the Charola, from the gilded statues to the vibrant frescoes, are a testament to the wealth and power of the Templars and the Order of Christ. Olivia was particularly taken by the Manueline nave, with its nautical motifs and intricate carvings that celebrate Portugal's Age of Discovery. We spent hours wandering through the cloisters, each one unique in its design and purpose. The Cemetery Cloister, with its solemn atmosphere, provided a moment for quiet reflection, while the Philips Cloister, with its Renaissance elegance, showcased the Convent's later architectural influences. As we explored, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to my own Portuguese heritage. Growing up in Évora, another city rich in history, I had always been fascinated by the stories of Portugal's past. Being here, in Tomar, felt like stepping back in time and reconnecting with my roots.

To walk through the Convento de Cristo is to walk through the heart of Portuguese history, a journey that spans centuries and encompasses the rise and fall of empires.

After our exploration of the Convento de Cristo, our stomachs began to rumble, signaling that it was time for lunch. We headed to Taverna Antiqua, a restaurant that promised a medieval dining experience. As we stepped inside, we were immediately transported back in time. The restaurant's decor was impeccable, with candlelit tables, stone walls, and servers dressed in period costumes. The menu was equally intriguing, featuring dishes inspired by medieval cuisine. Olivia and I decided to share the Royal Feast, a platter that included a variety of sample dishes, such as venison, wild boar, and chestnut sauce. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was enchanting. It felt like we were dining in a medieval tavern, surrounded by knights and nobles. The service was also excellent; our server was knowledgeable about the menu and eager to share the history of each dish. As we savored our meal, we couldn't help but marvel at the attention to detail that had gone into creating this immersive dining experience. From the medieval-style dishware to the live harp music, every element of Taverna Antiqua contributed to its unique charm. After lunch, we decided to take a stroll through Tomar's historic center. The town is a maze of narrow streets, lined with traditional houses and charming shops. We wandered aimlessly, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the architecture. Tomar is a town that invites exploration, with hidden gems waiting to be discovered around every corner. As the afternoon wore on, we began to feel the need for a refreshing drink. We stumbled upon A Canoa Wine Bar, a cozy establishment with a wide selection of Portuguese wines. We settled in at a table outside, ordered a couple of glasses of vinho verde, and watched the world go by. The wine was crisp and refreshing, the perfect antidote to a long day of sightseeing. The atmosphere at A Canoa was relaxed and convivial, with locals and tourists mingling and chatting. It was a great place to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. As evening approached, we made our way to O Tabuleiro for dinner. This restaurant, known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine, had been recommended to us by several locals. As we entered, we were greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with families and couples enjoying their meals. We were seated at a cozy table and presented with a menu that featured a wide array of Portuguese specialties. I decided to try the *tamboril* (monkfish), while Olivia opted for the *bochechas de porco* (pork cheeks). Both dishes were cooked to perfection, bursting with flavor and aroma. The portions were also generous, leaving us feeling satisfied and content. The service at O Tabuleiro was exceptional; our server was attentive and friendly, making us feel right at home. As we savored our meal, we couldn't help but appreciate the authenticity of the experience. This was Portuguese cuisine at its finest, prepared with love and served with pride. After dinner, we took one last stroll through Tomar's illuminated streets. The town took on a different character at night, with the Convent casting a long shadow over the landscape. The air was cool and crisp, and the atmosphere was peaceful and serene. As we walked hand-in-hand, Olivia and I reflected on the day's adventures. We had explored a magnificent convent, dined in a medieval tavern, and savored the flavors of Portuguese cuisine. It had been a day filled with history, culture, and culinary delights, a day that we would cherish for years to come. Back at the hotel, we sat on our balcony, sipping a nightcap and gazing at the stars. Tomar had cast its spell on us, and we were already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. We'll be visiting the Synagogue and the Museu dos Fósforos - Aquiles da Mota Lima. I was especially excited about the Museu dos Fósforos, a quirky museum dedicated to matchboxes. It sounded like the perfect way to add a touch of whimsy to our historical explorations. As we drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Tomar. This was a town that had captured our hearts and ignited our imaginations. I couldn't wait to see what tomorrow would bring.

Tomorrow we are planning to visit the Synagogue and the Museu dos Fósforos - Aquiles da Mota Lima, and Olivia is eager to check out the Fixe Gift Store - Loja Tomar. I’m also hoping to find some time to simply wander through the town's charming streets, soaking in its unique atmosphere. I’m particularly looking forward to our dinner at Clandestino, which has been recommended by several locals for its innovative cuisine and intimate setting.

I also need to remember to buy an umbrella, as the weather forecast predicts possible showers, and a new memory card for my camera, as I'm already running out of space.


Experience the charm of Tomar at Hotel Dos Templarios - your perfect getaway with modern amenities, exquisite dining, and rich local culture.


Discover the Convent of Christ in Tomar, a UNESCO World Heritage site that blends history, architecture, and stunning landscapes in Portugal.


Explore the enchanting Charola do Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO site in Tomar, Portugal, rich in Templar history and stunning architecture.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Taverna Antiqua in Tomar – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.


Experience the best of Portuguese wines and delectable tapas at A Canoa Wine Bar in Tomar, a charming bar perfect for a relaxing evening.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at O Tabuleiro in Tomar – where tradition meets taste in every dish.