Templars Tour from Sintra, Portugal

A trip back in time, where you can learn more about the history of the Knights Templar - one of the most wealthy and famous Western Christian military orders; men who were knights, warriors, and monks! Templars played an essential role in all the great times and battles of Portugal, from the foundation of the country by D. Afonso Henriques to the Discoveries. 

The headquarters of the Templars and later of the "Order of Christ" settled in Tomar, becoming the Templar capital of Portugal and Spain and one of the most important in the medieval world. The first stop will be at Almourol Castle, which is only accessible by boat as it's located on a small island in the middle of the river Tagus. It was completed in 1171 and has elements of the Templar fortifications. We will get there on our private boat, which is powered by solar energy and can quietly slide through the waters. Then we will visit Tomar, a Templar city that still has memories of the knightly monks, where Gualdim Pais, the Templar master, founded the Convent of Christ in 1162. This building is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also, in this city, we'll see the Church of Santa Maria dos Olivais, which was built in the second half of the 12th century. It was the seat of the Order of the Templars and served as the pantheon of the masters of the Order. The Castle of Ourem is a fortification of Moorish origin, donated to the Templars by D. Afonso Henriques in 1159. It stands on the top of a hill, at the height of 330 meters above sea level, giving a panoramic view you cannot miss. Join us and discover the remarkable and profound history of Portugal!

Highlights: Almourol Castle, river Tagus, Tomar, church of Sta Maria dos Olivais, church of St. John the Baptist, Castle of Ourem.

Departure: daily. Includes: a driver (guide), hotel pick up and drop off, boat ride, private transportation, insurances, free Wi-Fi, water. Not included: meals, tickets. Minimum 3 people.