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Monastery · Tomar, Santarém
Convento de Cristo
12th-century Templar castle that became the seat of the Ordem de Cristo, with the Charola, a round church, the Manueline Chapter window and Renaissance cloisters. World Heritage since 1983.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Convento de Cristo
The Convento de Cristo began as a castle of the Knights Templar, founded in 1160 by Gualdim Pais. When the order was dissolved in the 14th century, Portugal created the Ordem de Cristo, which inherited the assets and was based in Tomar. Infante D. Henrique was governor of the order.
The heart of the complex is the Charola, the Templars' round church from the 12th century, inspired by the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, with paintings and gilded woodwork. Tradition holds that the knights attended Mass on horseback.
During the reign of D. Manuel I the nave was expanded, and the window of the Sala do Capítulo, with ropes, seaweed, corals and armillary spheres carved in stone, became one of the symbols of the Manueline style. The Claustro de D. João III, from the 16th century, is one of the most important Renaissance works in Portugal.
The complex also includes several cloisters, dormitories and the castle, with the Templar wall. It was listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1983. A few kilometers away, the 17th‑century Aqueduto dos Pegões carried water to the convent.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours.
Best time
Right at opening, when there are fewer groups. Check the opening times and which areas are open before you go.
How to get there
It sits atop the hill above the historic center. Walk up through the Mata dos Sete Montes or via the road in about 15 minutes, or drive—there is parking.
Tip
Wear comfortable shoes: the complex is large and has stairs. Look for the Chapter window from the outside, in the Claustro de Santa Bárbara.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Convento de Cristo
What is the Charola?
The Templars' round church from the 12th century, inspired by the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
What is the Chapter window?
A Manueline window carved with ropes, seaweed, corals and armillary spheres, a symbol of the style.
Who founded the castle of Tomar?
Gualdim Pais, master of the Templars, in 1160.
Is the Convento de Cristo a World Heritage site?
Yes, since 1983.