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From Lisbon: Tomar, Christ Convent & Almourol Castle Tour
59 ReviewsWhile Crusades to the Holy Land dominate History books, few realize that another crusade was unfolding simultaneously in the Iberian Peninsula, playing a key role in shaping a new nation: Portugal.
Highlights
- Climb up to the Templar castle and discover the monumental Convent of Christ
- Explore Tomar and Santa Maria dos Olivais Church
- See the natural beauty of the confluence of the Zêzere and Tejo rivers
- Enjoy a boat ride to discover the stunning Castle of Almourol
Description
Meet your Around Lisbon guide and drive North for about 1h30 to Almourol Castle, a Templar fairytale-like fortress perched on an island in the Tagus River, while learning about the Iberian Crusade and the foundation of a new country: Portugal. Glide across the Tagus River’s calm waters to the Castle and climb the little island to explore the castle’s rugged towers and imagine Templar knights guarding this strategic outpost. Follow along the margins of Tagus river until the confluence with Zêzere river, the frontier separating Christians from Muslims, on the way to Tomar City. Cross the lands given to the Templars to defend and populate, as the first King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, tried to expand the territory to the South. Enjoy free time to wander Tomar’s cobbled streets, passing medieval and Manueline churches, and savor a local lunch (cost not included). In the afternoon, make a short visit to Santa Maria dos Olivias Church, dating back to the XII century, where many Templar Masters were buried. Learn how the Templars started a city from old Roman ruins, and how they were behind the breakthrough process of the Portuguese Discoveries. Finally, climb the hill to the Tomar Castle, built by the heroic Master Gualdim Pais, where Templar techniques and innovations were used. Your guide will show you the astonishing Charola Church (Templar rotunda) and the iconic Manueline window in the Christ Convent, while telling you all about the evolution of this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site. Take some free time to explore the rest of the Convent, before heading back to Lisbon where your tour ends. HIGHLIGHTS - Explore the lands given to the Templars to defend and populate, and board on a boat ride to Almourol Castle - Ride along the confluence of Tejo and Zêzere rivers, that made a natural border of vital importance - Visit Tomar, one of Portugal’s historical jewels and the main Templar town, where they founded their head Church, Santa Maria dos Olivais - Climb up to the Templar Castle of Tomar and learn about the Templar hero of Portugal: Master Gualdim Pais - Discover the monumental work of the Convent of Christ, headquarters for the Order of Christ, who succeeded the TemplarsIncludes
Pick up and drop-off at your accommodation Transportation in an air-conditioned van with free Wi-Fi Entrance fee to the Christ Convent and Almourol Castle Bottle of waterImportant Information
- Please wear comfortable clothes that are suitable for the weather
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund-
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