Exploring the Historic Charms of Tomar, Portugal

A Day of Discovery in Tomar

Today was all about uncovering the lesser-known treasures of Tomar. Away from the crowds flocking to the Convento de Cristo, Olivia and I sought out the stories etched in stone and the flavors savored by locals. It was a day of architectural marvels, spiritual reflection, and of course, delightful culinary experiences.

Our day began, as always, with breakfast at Hotel Dos Templarios. The buffet spread was impressive, offering everything from fresh pastries to local cheeses, fueling us up for a day of exploration. The weather was perfect, a gentle breeze rustling through the trees, promising a warm, sunny day ideal for walking and sightseeing. We set off with our trusty cameras, ready to capture the essence of Tomar beyond the convent walls.


Experience the charm of Tomar at Hotel Dos Templarios - your perfect getaway with modern amenities, exquisite dining, and rich local culture.
Our first stop was the Aqueduto do Convento de Cristo - Troço Pegões Altos. It was a short drive from the hotel, just off the Leiria road. As we approached, the sheer scale of the aqueduct was breathtaking. Stretching for approximately 6 kilometers, with its 180 arches striding across the landscape, it felt like stepping back in time. Built in the 17th century to supply water to the Convento de Cristo, the aqueduct is an incredible feat of engineering. Olivia, with her keen eye for design, was particularly fascinated by the double-decker arches in certain sections, marveling at the ingenuity of the architects.


Experience the grandeur of the Aqueduto do Convento de Cristo, a stunning historical landmark in Tomar, showcasing Portugal's architectural heritage.
We spent a good hour wandering along the aqueduct, taking photos and soaking in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The history nerd in me couldn't help but imagine the workers who toiled to build this structure, stone by stone, ensuring a steady supply of water for the monks at the convent. It’s amazing how such a functional structure can also be so beautiful. The arches framed the landscape perfectly, creating a sense of harmony between nature and human creation. I even managed to get a cool shot of a local farmer tending to his fields with the aqueduct looming in the background – a perfect representation of Tomar’s blend of past and present.

After the aqueduct, we drove back towards the center of Tomar to visit the Igreja de São João Baptista. Located in the Praça da República, the church is a beautiful example of Gothic and Manueline architecture. According to local lore, Gualdim Pais ordered the construction of the primitive church around the same time the Tomar Castle was being constructed. As we stepped inside, the cool, dim interior offered a welcome respite from the midday sun.


Explore the stunning Igreja de São João Baptista, a historic Catholic church in Tomar, showcasing exquisite architecture and rich Portuguese heritage.
The church's history is palpable, with layers of different architectural styles reflecting the passage of time. Olivia was immediately drawn to the Manueline details, the intricate carvings depicting maritime motifs and symbols of the Age of Discovery. I was particularly impressed by the panels painted by Gregório Lopes, one of Portugal's finest Renaissance artists. The vibrant colors and expressive figures seemed to leap off the walls, telling stories of faith and devotion. We lit a couple of candles and sat in silence for a few moments, reflecting on the church's long history and its significance to the people of Tomar. The church is still active, and it was interesting to observe local people going about their normal lives and routines in this historic and holy building.

Exploring the past not only enriches our understanding of the present but also inspires us to build a more meaningful future.

By this point, our stomachs were starting to rumble, so we made our way to Veras' House Restaurant for lunch. It was a recommendation from a local we met at the church, who swore it was the best place in town for authentic Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant was unpretentious, with a cozy, family-run feel. We were greeted warmly by the staff, who, despite the language barrier, made us feel right at home.


Discover the essence of Portuguese cuisine at Veras' House Restaurant in Tomar, where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
We ordered a selection of dishes to share, including the fried shrimp and a mixed seafood plate. The portions were generous, and the food was incredibly flavorful. Olivia, who is usually quite picky, raved about the freshness of the seafood. I particularly enjoyed the arroz de marisco, a traditional rice dish brimming with clams, mussels, and shrimp. It was the perfect comfort food after a morning of sightseeing. The prices were very reasonable, making it an excellent value for the quality and quantity of food we received. We learned that Vera's is a local favorite, and it's not uncommon to wait in line for a table, especially during peak hours. Luckily, we arrived just before the lunch rush and were seated immediately.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to explore Tomar’s more modern side with a visit to Brewtall. This bar came highly recommended, and I was keen to sample some local craft beers. The bar had a relaxed, hipster vibe, with a wide selection of beers on tap and a friendly crowd. I opted for a local IPA, while Olivia chose a refreshing fruit beer. We sat outside, enjoying the warm evening air and watching the world go by. It was a great way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.


Discover Brewtall, Tomar's cozy bar offering exceptional cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after exploring Portugal's historic gems.
For dinner, we had reservations at Taverna d'Talha, a medieval-themed restaurant that promised a unique dining experience. The restaurant is located in the old Jewish neighborhood of Tomar, adding to its historical charm. As we stepped inside, we were transported back in time. The decor was rustic and atmospheric, with wooden tables, candlelight, and waiters dressed in medieval garb. We started with some tapas, including sausages and chorizo, accompanied by a local red wine. For our main courses, Olivia ordered the roasted wild boar, while I opted for the codfish à brás, a traditional Portuguese dish made with shredded codfish, potatoes, and eggs. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was enchanting.


Experience the authentic flavors of Portugal at Taverna d'Talha in Tomar—your go-to spot for delicious tapas and vibrant local culture.
What made the experience even more special was the fact that the taverns main theme is the Ginjinha traditional Portuguese liquer which is drunk in shots served in clay cups. Beer and wine are also served as are medieval style petiscos, chocolate and snacks. As we enjoyed our meal, we learned about the restaurant's history and its connection to the Jewish community that once thrived in this neighborhood. Apparently, the tavern was a living space in medieval times and has 2 tunnels which once connected the houses in this district to each other. It’s believed that these tunnels were possibly used by the Jewish community in the time of the inquisition when they needed to practice their faith in secret. The tunnels have been preserved and framed with resistant glass, so they can be viewed by customers.

After dinner, we strolled back to the Hotel Dos Templarios, the Nabão River glistening under the moonlight. We stopped for a moment on the bridge, taking in the view of the Convento de Cristo silhouetted against the night sky. It was the perfect end to a day of discovery, a reminder of the rich history and beauty that Tomar has to offer.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Tomar's hidden corners, including the Levada de Tomar and the Praça da República. We're also hoping to do some shopping at the Centro Comercial Templários. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure.

Until tomorrow,

João