Convent of Christ

The Convento de Cristo in Tomar traces back to the Templar castle built in 1160 under Grand Master Gualdim Pais. After the dissolution of the Templars, their Portuguese branch became the Order of Christ in the 14th century, which supported the voyages of discovery of the 15th and 16th centuries. The heart of the complex is the Charola, the polygonal 12th-century Templar church with rich decoration. Later additions include Gothic cloisters (15th century), the Manueline nave of the 16th century and a Renaissance cloister from the time of John III. The Manueline chapter house window, with motifs from the Age of Discovery, is famous. The complex has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.

Allow at least two to three hours. The convent stands on a hill above the town; you can park nearby or walk up from the centre. (As of October 2026) restoration work is still under way and, according to press reports, is partly due to continue until the end of 2026, so some areas may be closed. Check the information on the Tomar municipality or monument website before you go.