Castle of Tomar

Category: Military Architecture > Castle

District: Santarém > Tomar > Tomar > São João Baptista e Santa Maria dos Olivais

Location

Located in the city of Tomar, in the parish of São João Baptista, in the district of Santarém, it is part of the Convent of Christ, forming an architectural ensemble of great historical relevance.

Templar Origin

Built in 1160 by the Master of the Knights Templar, D. Gualdim Pais, the castle was part of the defensive line of the Tagus, along with other castles such as Almourol and Pombal.

Recognitions

Classified as a National Monument since 1910 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

Strategic Importance

It was built on a high point, on the bank of the Nabão River, for the defense and control of the region during the Christian Reconquest.

Remarkable Structure

It features double walls, the Keep, and the Alcazaba. It introduced defensive innovations such as the alambor, which hindered direct attacks on the walls.

Templar Charola

An integral part of the castle, it was designed as a space for prayer and inspired by circular churches in the Holy Land.

Historical Resistance

In 1190, the castle resisted a siege by Muslim forces led by Caliph Almanzor, demonstrating its military importance.

Later Transformations

After the extinction of the Knights Templar, the assets passed to the Order of Christ, which continued to develop the complex, including works in the Convent of Christ.

Architectural Styles

It combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements, representing the historical and artistic evolution of the region.

Access and Exploration

The main entrance, through the Porta de Santiago, leads to areas such as the Keep and the courtyard that leads to the Charola. Other points of interest include the Porta do Sol, the Porta do Sangue, and the towers that reinforce the wall.

Restoration and Conservation

The castle has undergone several restoration interventions, including works on the walls and towers, to maintain its preserved state to this day.

Panoramic View

It offers stunning views over the city of Tomar and the Nabão River, making it an unmissable place for those who appreciate history, architecture, and nature.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castelo_de_Tomar

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt