Tomar, Portugal: Exploring a Hidden Gem

Welcome to Tomar! Nestled in the heart of Portugal, Tomar is a city where history whispers from every corner, where tradition is a living tapestry, and where every street and building has a story to tell. Far from the bustling tourist tracks of Lisbon and Porto, Tomar offers a serene escape into a world where the past and present dance in harmony.

As someone who has traversed Portugal, from the sun-kissed beaches of the Algarve to the vineyard-laced hills of Douro Valley, I find Tomar uniquely enchanting. It's a place where you can wander through ancient streets, feel the legacy of the Knights Templar, and immerse yourself in a culture that is both deeply Portuguese and distinctively its own.

In this article, I invite you to journey with me through the cobbled lanes of Tomar, to discover its hidden gems, and to experience the warmth and charm of this lesser-known jewel in Portugal's crown. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or planning your first Portuguese adventure, Tomar is a destination that promises to captivate your heart and imagination. Let's uncover the secrets of this hidden gem together!

1. Starting Your Adventure: Reaching Tomar from Porto, Lisbon, and Faro

Embarking on your journey to Tomar, a hidden gem in Portugal, is straightforward from the country's major cities. Here's your guide to reaching Tomar from Porto, Lisbon, and Faro, whether by train, car, or bus.

From Porto

By Train: Board a train at São Bento or Campanhã station in Porto, heading towards Tomar. This journey typically involves a change at Entroncamento and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
By Car: A 2-hour drive via the A1 motorway from Porto to Tomar offers captivating scenic views.
By Bus: Regular bus services operate from Porto to Tomar, with the journey taking approximately 3 to 4 hours.

From Lisbon

By Train: Direct trains to Tomar are available from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours.
By Car: Driving from Lisbon to Tomar via the A1 and A23 highways takes approximately 1.5 hours.
By Bus: Buses from Lisbon to Tomar run frequently, offering an alternative to train travel, with a journey time of about 2 to 3 hours.

From Faro

By Train: While there’s no direct train from Faro to Tomar, you can take a train to Lisbon and then transfer to a Tomar-bound train. The total journey can take around 5 to 6 hours.
By Car: A road trip from Faro to Tomar takes about 4 hours via the A2 and A1 motorways.
By Bus: Buses also run from Faro to Lisbon, where you can transfer to a bus or train to Tomar. The entire journey may take about 6 to 7 hours.

Whether you’re starting from Porto, Lisbon, or Faro, the journey to the enchanting city of Tomar is an integral part of the adventure, setting the stage for the wonders that await.

2. Discovering Tomar: A City Unlike Any Other in Portugal

Tomar, a captivating city in central Portugal, stands out with its unique blend of history, culture, and tranquility. Let's delve into what makes Tomar distinctive in the Portuguese landscape, including its safety, infrastructure, and famous personalities who have shaped its legacy.

A Contrast to Portugal's Bustling Cities

Tranquility vs. Tourist Hubs: Unlike Lisbon and Porto, Tomar offers a quieter, more relaxed pace of life. It's a perfect retreat for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
Rich Historical Tapestry: Tomar's history is deeply intertwined with the Knights Templar, making it a key historical site in Portugal, distinct from the maritime history prevalent in coastal cities.

Safety and Serenity

A Safe Haven: Tomar is known for its low crime rate and friendly atmosphere, making it a safe destination for travelers and families.
Peaceful Streets: The city's tranquil environment, with less traffic and noise, offers a serene experience, a contrast to the lively streets of Portugal's bigger cities.

Infrastructure and Accessibility

Well-Connected Yet Secluded: Tomar is easily accessible by train and road, yet it maintains a sense of seclusion from the typical tourist paths.
Modern Amenities in Historical Settings: The city seamlessly blends modern facilities with its historical charm, offering comfortable accommodations and amenities.

Famous Personalities from Tomar

Historical Figures: Gualdim Pais, the founder of the city and a Grand Master of the Knights Templar, is a prominent historical figure associated with Tomar. We will explore the fascinating subject of the Knights Templar in a dedicated section below..., and possibly in a future in-depth article.

In Tomar, the past and present coexist in harmony, offering visitors a unique experience that's different from anywhere else in Portugal. Its blend of history, culture, safety, and modern amenities make it an intriguing destination for travelers seeking an authentic Portuguese experience.

3. Educational Excellence in Tomar: Schools and the Instituto Politécnico

Tomar is not just rich in history and culture; it's also a hub for educational excellence. The city boasts a range of educational institutions, from primary schools to a distinguished polytechnic institute.

Diverse Schooling Options: The city has several primary, junior high, and high schools, catering to the educational needs of younger residents and offering a strong foundation for higher education.
Instituto Politécnico de Tomar (IPT): A centerpiece of higher education in Tomar, the IPT is renowned for its comprehensive curriculum. It includes three schools: Escola Superior de Tecnologia de Tomar (ESTT), Escola Superior de Gestão de Tomar (ESGT), and Escola Superior de Tecnologia de Abrantes (ESTA). These schools offer over 60 courses in fields like Archaeology, Arts, Business Sciences, Engineering, and more, reflecting the institute's commitment to diverse academic disciplines.

Tomar's dedication to education enriches its community, offering residents and students alike a range of opportunities for learning and growth. The presence of such a well-rounded educational infrastructure adds another layer to the city's appeal, making it a place of both historical significance and contemporary relevance.

4. Living in Tomar: Housing, Cost of Living, and Salaries

Tomar offers a balanced lifestyle with affordable housing and a reasonable cost of living. Whether you're considering renting, buying, or working in Tomar, here's an overview of what you can expect.

Housing Options

Renting in Tomar:
- Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre: €450 - €550
- Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre: €350 - €450
- Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre: €500 - €800
- Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre: €500 - €700
Buying Property:
- Price per Square Feet in City Centre: €190.45
- Price per Square Feet Outside of Centre: €116.13

Cost of Living and Salaries

Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax): Around €1,200.
Mortgage Interest Rate: Approximately 3.48% annually for a 20-year fixed-rate mortgage.

This data provides a glimpse into the economic aspects of living in Tomar. For a more detailed understanding, visit Numbeo's Cost of Living in Tomar.

Tomar's affordability in housing and general living costs, combined with a decent average salary, makes it an attractive option for those seeking a high quality of life in a culturally rich and historic city.

5. Tomar's Treasures: Attractions and Activities

Tomar is a city brimming with historical and cultural attractions. Here's a guide to some of the best things to do and see in this charming city:

Top Attractions

Convent of Christ: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this convent showcases a blend of Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance architecture. It's a testament to the history of the Knights Templar and the Order of Christ.
Castelo de Tomar: In the same compound as the Convent of Christ, this Templar castle is adorned with the Cross of Malta and other symbols, representing a significant piece of Portuguese history.
Aqueduto dos Pegões: This impressive aqueduct was constructed to supply water to the Convent of Christ, showcasing remarkable engineering from the 16th century.
Tomar Synagogue and Jewish Museum: Discover the history of the Jewish community in Tomar through this well-preserved synagogue and museum.

Cultural Experiences

Festa dos Tabuleiros: Occurring every four years, this festival features parades with girls wearing pillar-like headdresses, known as tabuleiros, decorated with bread, flowers, and religious symbols.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Tomar is during the spring and early summer when the weather is pleasant, and you can experience local festivals like the Festa dos Tabuleiros.

This guide to Tomar's attractions offers a mix of historical exploration and cultural immersion, ensuring visitors have a rich and varied experience in this unique city.

6. The Rich Tapestry of Tomar's History

Tomar's history is as fascinating as it is diverse, stretching from ancient times to the present day.

Early Foundations and the Knights Templar: Tomar was founded by Gualdim Pais, Grand Master of the Knights Templar, in 1160. The Templars established the Castle and Convent, which later became their headquarters in Portugal. The city's location on a chain of seven hills is thought to have mystical significance, similar to the seven hills of Rome and Jerusalem.
The Struggle and Valor: In 1190, the city heroically withstood an attack by the Almohad Caliph Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Mansur, led by the then 72-year-old Gualdim Pais.
Transition to the Order of Christ: After the suppression of the Knights Templar in 1314, King Dinis of Portugal formed the Order of Christ, which inherited the Templar assets. Tomar became central to the Order's activities, especially under Henry the Navigator in the 15th century, who used its resources for his explorations.
Jewish Heritage and Inquisition: The influx of Jewish refugees in 1492 significantly impacted Tomar. However, the establishment of the Portuguese Inquisition in the town led to persecution and forced conversions of Jews in the 16th century.
Political Significance: In 1581, Tomar hosted the Portuguese Cortes, which recognized Felipe II of Spain as King of Portugal, marking the beginning of the Iberian Union.
Industrial Advancements: The 18th century saw Tomar become one of the first industrialized areas in Portugal, with significant developments in textile manufacturing.
French Occupation and Liberation: During the Peninsular War, Tomar was occupied by French troops and later liberated by the Duke of Wellington and his forces.
Dissolution of Religious Orders: In 1834, all religious orders, including the Order of Christ, were disbanded, marking a significant shift in Tomar's role and influence.

This historical journey through Tomar reveals a city that has been a significant religious, cultural, and political center throughout its existence, playing a pivotal role in Portugal's history.

7. The Legendary Knights Templar in Tomar

The Knights Templar, a mysterious and powerful order of medieval knights, hold a significant place in the history of Tomar. Here’s an introduction to their legacy:

Origins and Mission of the Knights Templar

Founding: The Order of the Knights Templar was founded in 1119 to protect Christian pilgrims in the Holy Land during the Crusades.
Rise to Power: Recognized by the Catholic Church in 1139, the Templars became a favored charity across Christendom and grew rapidly in membership and power.

The Knights Templar in Tomar

Establishment in Tomar: In 1159, after the conquest of the region from the Moors, the land was granted to the Knights Templar. Gualdim Pais, the Grand Master in Portugal, established the Castle and Convent of the Knights Templar, which later became their headquarters in the country.
Defenders of the Faith: The Templars in Tomar were key in defending the region from Moorish invasions and played a crucial role in the Reconquista.
Spiritual and Military Prowess: Known for their distinctive white mantles with a red cross, the Templars were among the most skilled fighting units of the Crusades and also managed a vast economic infrastructure.

Downfall and Legacy

Suppression of the Order: The Templars were dissolved in 1312 under pressure from King Philip IV of France and Pope Clement V, largely due to their immense power and wealth.
Transformation to Order of Christ: In Portugal, the Templar’s assets and personnel transitioned to the Order of Christ, which continued the Templar’s legacy and was instrumental in Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.

Impact on Tomar

Architectural Heritage: The Convent of Christ in Tomar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, embodying the rich architectural legacy of the Templars.
Cultural Influence: The influence of the Knights Templar is deeply ingrained in Tomar's history, with legends and stories that continue to captivate visitors and historians alike.

The Knights Templar, with their blend of military might, religious fervor, and enigmatic history, form an integral part of Tomar's past. Understanding their story is key to appreciating the historical depth of this remarkable city.

Conclusion: My Enchanting Encounter with Tomar

As I reflect on my journey through Tomar, it's clear that this city is nothing short of a 'coup de foudre', a love at first sight. Unlike the bustling, crowded streets of Lisbon and Porto, which at times can evoke a sense of claustrophobia, Tomar exudes a tranquil openness. The central park and spacious plazas lend the city an airy, welcoming feel, a stark contrast to the often cramped urban spaces elsewhere.

There's a palpable sense of history seeping through the very stones of Tomar. Each cobblestone, each ancient wall, seems to whisper tales of the past, inviting exploration and discovery. This city isn't just surrounded by history; it's living within it, breathing it. In Tomar, history isn't just something to be observed or read about; it's an ever-present narrative waiting to be uncovered, with each corner offering a new chapter.

My time in Tomar has been an exploration of serenity and history intertwined. It's a city where calmness pervades, where the hustle of modern life takes a back seat to the timeless stories etched into its landscape. In Tomar, every step is a journey through time, every glance a glimpse into a past that continues to shape the present.

Furthermore, if given the opportunity, Tomar is a place I would seriously consider making my home. Its combination of tranquility, rich history, and the welcoming openness of its spaces and people make it an ideal locale for those seeking a deeper connection and a slower pace of life.

In essence, Tomar is more than just a destination; it's a revelation, a place where history and tranquility coalesce into an experience that's as enriching as it is mesmerizing. It's a city that doesn't just deserve to be visited; it deserves to be experienced, to be felt, to be lived.