Templar City

TEMPLAR CITY

June 2013

The Nabantinos – the people of Tomar

Churches and Chapels – historic religious buildings

Convent of Christ – the former Templar convent

The city of Tomar is often referred to as a Templar city because it was founded in 1160 by Dom Gualdim Pais, the fourth Grand Master of the Knights Templar in Portugal. Today, Tomar is best known as the home of the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important monuments in the country.

The original settlement was built within the protective walls of the Castle and around the Convent. Over time, the city expanded beyond its fortifications. Churches, factories, and homes began to appear along the banks of the Nabão River. By the mid-15th century, Tomar entered a period of growth, attracting artisans, merchants, and new settlers, and eventually becoming one of Portugal’s most important urban centres.

At the heart of the historic centre lies the Praça da República (Republic Square), dominated by the statue of Dom Gualdim Pais. The square is framed by an elegant collection of 17th-century buildings, including Tomar’s Town Hall, and serves as the city’s main gathering place. It hosts religious celebrations, historical reenactments, exhibitions, and organic markets throughout the year.

From the northeast corner of the square begins Rua Serpa Pinto, also known as The Corredoura. According to legend, this is where the Templar knights once trained. The street leads to the Ponte Velha (Old Bridge), a structure of Roman origin. From the bridge, looking to the right along the riverbank, you can see the Lagares d’el Rei (Mills of the King), which once harnessed the power of the Nabão River. To the left lies Mouchão Park, a popular gathering place in summer, where people seek relief from the intense heat.

Looking straight ahead, slightly to the right beyond the bridge, are the ruins of the Convent of Saint Iria. Just behind them stands the Church of Saint Iria, the patron saint of the city.

Other notable historic buildings in Tomar include: