The Knights Templar
If, like me, anything Templar intrigues you, then you need to check out the top 5 Knights Templar sites In Lisbon. The Templars in Portugal have a rich history dating back to the founding of the nation in the 12th century.
Lisbon is a city that is rich in history and culture. It is also a city that has a deep connection with the Knights Templar. The Knights Templar were a Catholic military order that was active from the 12th to the 14th centuries. The order was founded by a group of knights who were tasked with protecting Christian pilgrims on their way to the Holy Land.
The Knights Templar were also known for their involvement in the Crusades. They fought alongside other Christian armies to retake the Holy Land from Muslim forces. Over time, the Knights Templar became a powerful and influential organization that had a significant impact on the history of Europe and the Middle East.
The Templar Nation
The Knights Templar had a significant impact on Portugal’s history. They aided the Portuguese kings during the Reconquista. However, in 1312, the pope ordered all Templars in Europe to be rounded up and burned at the stake.
King Dinis of Portugal faced a dilemma as he did not want to follow suit. Instead, he sent them to the Algarve where they remained hidden for several years until they reemerged under a new name, the military order of Christ. This order continued to operate and expand their influence over the next 150-200 years.
They were instrumental in the Portuguese explorations, discovering trade routes to Asia and across the New World. Additionally, Henry the Navigator, the father of the Age of Discoveries, was a grand master of this order. Famous explorers like Vasco da Gama, Magellan, and Pedro Alvares Cabral were also members of this order. It is truly an incredible piece of history!
Today, Lisbon is home to several sites that are linked to the Knights Templar. These sites are a testament to the order’s legacy and their impact on the city’s history. Here are the top 5 Knights Templar sites in Lisbon.
Top 5 Knights Templar Sites To Visit In Lisbon
1. The Church of Santa Luzia
This beautiful church is located in the Alfama neighborhood of Lisbon. It was built in the 12th century and is one of the oldest churches in the city. It is believed that the church was built on the site of a former Templar church and was a meeting place for the Knights Templar.
A medieval castle that is a must-visit for history buffs. It was originally built by the Moors in the 11th century and was later expanded by the Knights Templar and was used by the Knights Templar as a stronghold during the Crusades. The castle offers breathtaking views of the city and the Tagus River.
The Jeronimos Monastery is one of the most impressive buildings in Lisbon. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in the 16th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Portuguese Gothic architecture. The monastery is closely linked to the discovery of the sea route to India and the Portuguese Age of Discovery.The monastery is believed to have been built on the site of a former Knights Templar stronghold.
The Tower of Belem is another iconic landmark in Lisbon. It was built in the 16th century and was used by the Knights Templar to defend the city from enemy attacks. It is closely associated with the Age of Discovery and is one of the most visited landmarks in Lisbon.
The Monument to the Discoveries is a tribute to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Built in the 20th century to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Prince Henry the Navigator, who was a patron of the Knights Templar. It depicts important figures from Portugal’s Age of Discovery, including explorers, cartographers, and missionaries.
A Templar Legacy
These sites are all linked to the Knights Templar and are a testament to their legacy in Lisbon. They offer visitors a unique glimpse into the history of the city and the impact that the Knights Templar had on its development.
The Knights Templar were instrumental in helping the Portuguese kings expel the Moors from Portugal and were rewarded with lands as a token of gratitude. As a result, there are numerous Templar sites scattered throughout Portugal for visitors to explore and appreciate.
One of the most notable and impressive Templar sites in Portugal is located in the charming town of Tomar. Tomar is a small town about an hour and a half drive north of Lisbon. However, Tomar is not the only place in Portugal to explore the history and legacy of the Knights Templar; there are plenty of other incredible Templar-related sites to visit.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a fan of architecture or simply looking for a unique travel experience, the top 5 Templar sites in Lisbon are sure to captivate and inspire you. If you’re interested in the history of the Knights Templar and their successors, the Military Order of Christ, then you should explore these sites in Lisbon.
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