Tomar in Poerugal, the church

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Tomar

Tomar is one of central Portugal’s most appealing small towns. With its pedestrian-friendly historic centre, its pretty riverside park frequented by swans, herons and families of ducks, and its charming natural setting adjacent to the lush Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes (Seven Hills National Forest), it wins lots of points for aesthetics.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Gardens and exterior of the Convent of Christ (Convento de Cristo), UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tomar, Ribatejo, Portugal, Europe

    Convento de Cristo

    Tomar

    Wrapped in splendour and mystery, the Knights Templar held enormous power in Portugal from the 12th to 16th centuries, and largely bankrolled the Age of…

  • Aqueduto de Pegões

    Aqueduto de Pegões

    Tomar

    This astonishing aqueduct, striding towards the monastery from the northwest, was built between 1593 and 1613 to supply water to thirsty monks. Its 180…

  • Museu Luso-Hebraico Abraham Zacuto

    Museu Luso-Hebraico Abraham Zacuto

    Tomar

    On a charming cobbled lane in the old town, you’ll find the country’s best-preserved medieval synagogue. Built between 1430 and 1460, it was used for only…

  • Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes

    Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes

    Tomar

    These bucolic 39-hectare gardens – linked to the Convento de Cristo – were founded by the Order of Christ and once served as a contemplative space and…

  • Igreja de São João Baptista

    Igreja de São João Baptista

    Tomar

    The old town’s most striking church faces Praça da República, itself an eye-catching ensemble of 17th-century buildings alive with the echo of cooing…

  • Museu dos Fósforos

    Museu dos Fósforos

    Tomar

    This museum, reached via the lovely courtyard of the Convento de São Francisco, contains Europe’s largest collection of matchboxes. Amassed by local …

  • Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Conceição

    Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Conceição

    Tomar

    Downhill from the monastery is this strikingly simple Renaissance chapel in a lovely position. It’s attributed to Diogo de Torralva, architect of the…

  • Núcleo De Arte Contemporânea

    Núcleo De Arte Contemporânea

    Tomar

    This modern museum showcases the work of 20th-century modernists and surrealists as well as contemporary artists from all over Portugal.

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