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Not far from Fatima, the Convent of Christ of Tomar is one of the most important historical and artistic monuments in all of Portugal. Today it is a heritage protected by UNESCO, recognized as a World Heritage Site since 1983 together with the Castle.
The complex is also located along the Route of the Portuguese monasteries, which includes two other nearby jewels: the Monastery of Batalha and the Monastery of Alcobaça.
Today, visiting the Convent of Christ and the Castle of Tomar, you can admire the skilful combination of art and different styles ranging from Romanesque, to Gothic, to Manuelino.
The interest of the Convent of Tomar lies in its very origins, which attract many visitors. In fact, in ancient times it was a fortress of the Knights of the Templars. And there are so many elements that recall their myth, such as the Round church (to which the Gothic nave was added over the centuries), whose shape resumes that of the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem. Beautiful and richly decorated interiors.
The Central Tower, and the Towers that dominate the external walls of the Castle, are other innovations introduced in Portugal by the Templars.
Do not miss a visit to the 8 cloisters, including the Renaissance Cloister of John III and the Gothic cloister of the cemetery, which dates back to the first half of the 1500s.
PRACTICAL INFO
HOW TO GET THERE
The convent is located in the small town of Tomar, just under 30 km from Fatima. You can arrive exclusively by car, or, alternatively, by bus.
Coimbra, to the north, is about 50 minutes by car, via the A3. From Lisbon, to the south, you have to travel a distance of about 140km, most of which on the A1/E1, with a travel time of about 90 minutes.
Rede Expressos manages bus transport. The vehicles are modern and comfortable, with not too high frequencies.
OPENING TIME
The Monastery is open every day from Monday to Sunday, with the following times:
- From October to May, from 09:00 to 17:30.
- From June to September, from 09:00 to 18:30
Closed on 01 January, 01 March, Easter Sunday, 01 May, 24 and 25 December.
TICKETS CONVENT OF CHRIST
The standard rate entrance ticket costs €6.00 per person, from 12 years old, up to 64.
Adults aged 65 and over pay the reduced rate of €3.00.
Family discount for groups of at least 4 people. In this case it is possible to take advantage of a discount of 50% (3.00€ per person)
Free for children up to 11 years of age and for visitors with reduced mobility.
The special combined Património Mundial ticket is available. It offers access to Alcobaça, Batalha, and the Convento de Cristo within 7 days of validation. The 3 complexes are part of the route of the Portuguese monasteries of the World Heritage. It costs €15.00 per person
Tickets can be purchased directly online on the official website.
Times and entrances are subject to change. Before visiting the site it is always advisable to inform yourself in advance about the rules and laws on COVID-19.
Everything indicated is for information purposes only.