Convent of Christ

Templar Jewel and Treasure of the History Portugal

The Convent of Christ, located in the city of Tomar, is one of the most emblematic monuments in Portugal, with a history deeply linked to the Order of the Templars and, later, the Order of Christ. Founded in the 12th century by Gualdim Pais, Grand Master of the Templars in Portugal, the convent began as a Templar castle, playing a crucial role in defending the border of Christian territory during the Reconquista.

Over the centuries, the architectural complex expanded and transformed, reflecting different styles that mark the history of art in Portugal. The Charola, the original nucleus of the Templar church, is a notable example of Romanesque architecture inspired by the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem, and was later enriched with Gothic and Manueline elements.

During the Age of Discoveries, the convent gained even more importance. The Order of Christ, which inherited the assets and properties of the Templars after their extinction, began to play a central role in supporting Portuguese maritime explorations. It was in this context that Infante D. Henrique, Master of the Order, promoted the expansion of the convent. From this phase, the famous Manueline Window stands out, a masterpiece carved into the façade of the Chapter Room, full of nautical symbols and references to overseas expansion..

In the following centuries, several cloisters, chapels and outbuildings were built, especially during the Renaissance and Mannerist periods. The Main Cloister, also known as the Cloister of D. João III, reflects the sobriety and balance of the Renaissance style, contrasting with the exuberance of the Manueline style.

The Convent of Christ is more than a religious monument; It is a living testimony to the military, spiritual, artistic and maritime history of Portugal. In 1983, it was classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, recognized for its historical and artistic richness, as well as the uniqueness of its architecture, which synthesizes centuries of styles and cultural influences..

Today, the Convent of Christ is one of the most visited places in Portugal, attracting scholars, tourists and history lovers, and continues to inspire admiration for its symbolism, beauty and importance in Portuguese identity.

How to get there:

To travel from Villa’s Pomar do Moinho, in Usseira, to the Convento de Cristo, in Tomar, there are several options:

1. By Car (Fastest and Convenient Option)

Traveling by car is the most efficient and flexible way to get to Tomar, taking approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to cover around 95 km.

General directions:

• Leave Usseira and access the A8 towards Lisbon.

• Then take the A15 towards Santarém.

• Then, enter the A1 heading north and follow the exit for the A23 towards Abrantes/Tomar.

• Continue on the A13, which connects directly to Tomar.

• When you arrive in the city, follow the signs for the Convento de Cristo. There is parking near the monument.

2. Public Transport

Public transportation options exist, but may require multiple connections and some planning:

• Bus: You can take a bus from Óbidos or Caldas da Rainha to Santarém or Leiria. From these cities, there are buses to Tomar, although times may be limited. It is advisable to check the timetables in advance.

• Train: The nearest train station is in Óbidos. From there, you can take a train to Entroncamento, where you can connect directly to Tomar. The journey can take more than 2 hours, depending on schedules and connections.

3. Taxi or Transport Apps

For those who prefer a direct and comfortable solution without driving:

• You can call a taxi or use a transport app directly from Villa’s Pomar do Moinho to Tomar.

• The journey takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes, but the cost will be higher than public transport.

4. Organized Tours

Some tourism agencies offer organized tours to Tomar, often combined with visits to historical sites linked to the Templars, such as Almourol or Fátima. If you are looking for a more guided and structured tour, this could be a good alternative.

Additional Tips

✔ Parking: There are free and paid options near the convent. During high season, it is advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.

✔ Parking: The ideal is to visit early in the morning or during the week, to avoid tourist groups.

✔ Other points of interest: In addition to the Convento de Cristo, explore the historic center of Tomar, the Pegões Aqueduct and the Match Museum.

Conclusion: The quickest and most practical way to get to Convento de Cristo is by car, due to its flexibility and ease of access. However, it is possible to arrive by bus or train with some planning, or opt for a taxi or private transport service for greater convenience.

Location address: Igreja do Castelo Templário, Estr. do Convento, 2300-000 Tomar, Portugal

Get in touch: http://www.conventocristo.gov.pt