Lisbon is a city steeped in history, and its connection to the Knights Templar adds another layer of intrigue. The Templars have roots dating back to the 12th century. They played a significant role in shaping not only Portugal but also the wider European and global history. In this post, we’ll explore the top 5 Knights Templar sites in Lisbon. Take a glimpse into the legacy of this legendary order.
Who Were the Knights Templar?
The Knights Templar were a Catholic military order established in 1119 to protect Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. Over time, they grew powerful, becoming not only warriors but also financiers, landowners, and explorers. In Portugal, they played a pivotal role during the Reconquista, aiding the Portuguese monarchy in the expulsion of the Moors.
However, the Templars faced a tragic end in 1312 when the Pope ordered their dissolution across Europe. Despite this, in Portugal, they reemerged under a new name: The Military Order of Christ. This order continued to have a profound influence on Portugal, particularly during the Age of Discovery. Notable figures like Prince Henry the Navigator and explorers such as Vasco da Gama were members.
Today, several landmarks in Lisbon still bear the imprint of the Templars’ legacy. Let’s explore the top 5 Knights Templar sites in Lisbon you can visit to uncover their fascinating story.
Top 5 Knights Templar Sites To Visit In Lisbon
1. Church of Santa Luzia: A Templar Enigma
Santa Luzia is one of Lisbon’s oldest churches in the historic Alfama neighbourhood. It’s also linked to the Templars through both history and legend. While there’s no definitive proof that the Templars built it, many believe that it was established on the site of a Templar chapel.
The church itself has a romanesque style and offers one of the best views of the city. Legends say that the Templars used this church as a secret meeting place during the Reconquista. In the heart of Alfama, it’s easy to imagine the Templars walking these cobbled streets on their way to prayer or battle.
Myth: Some say that the Templars left secret symbols hidden in the church. The cross of the order can sometimes be spotted on the old stone walls.
The Castle of São Jorge is Lisbon’s most famous fortress, perched high on a hill overlooking the city. While the castle’s origins date back to the Moorish period, there’s no confirmed record that the Templars were directly involved in its construction or defense.
However, after the Reconquista in 1147, when King Afonso Henriques captured Lisbon, the Templars were very much active in protecting the city. They may have played a role in its defense, helping to solidify Christian rule in the area. The Templars were known for fortifying key locations, so it’s possible they helped reinforce the walls of the castle or used it as a base during their campaigns.
Myth: Some say that there’s a hidden treasure buried beneath the castle—left behind by the Templars themselves. Could the castle be hiding more than just remnants of history?
Though Jerónimos Monastery was built in the 16th century—long after the Templars were disbanded—it’s closely tied to their legacy through the Order of Christ. After the Templars were dissolved in 1312, the Order of Christ took over many of their responsibilities in Portugal. This order played a crucial role in the country’s Age of Discovery.
Prince Henry the Navigator, a key figure in the Order of Christ, was a direct heir to the Templars’ traditions. The Jerónimos Monastery was constructed with support from the Order of Christ and became a symbol of Portugal’s dominance in maritime exploration. The monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. Its intricate details reflect the wealth and power of the Order of Christ—a continuation of the Templar’s influence.
Fun Fact: Although the Jerónimos Monastery wasn’t built by the Templars themselves, its connection to their legacy through the Order of Christ makes it one of the most symbolic sites in Lisbon. It’s almost as if you can feel their presence when you stand beneath its towering arches.
The Tower of Belém is another landmark that connects to the Templars indirectly through the Order of Christ. The Order inherited much of the Templars’ military and naval responsibility, especially for the protection of the Portuguese coastline.
The Tower of Belém served as a fortress and a symbol of power during Portugal’s golden age of exploration. It was built to defend the river entrance to Lisbon from potential invaders. Although the Templars themselves didn’t build the tower, their successor order—the Order of Christ—played a central role in the defense of the city and the surrounding coastline.
Legend: Some say that the Tower of Belém hides secret chambers beneath its stone walls. There the Order of Christ once held their mysterious meetings. Whispers suggest that these secretive gatherings were not just about defense but about mapping the unknown world and plotting voyages that would change history forever. Who knows—there may still be hidden symbols waiting to be uncovered!
The Monument to the Discoveries commemorates the Age of Discovery and the men who sailed into the unknown. While it’s not a Templar site, it’s closely linked to the Templars through their successor, the Order of Christ.
Many of the key figures honored at the monument, including Prince Henry the Navigator, were deeply influenced by the Templar traditions. Prince Henry was Grand Master of the Order of Christ, and he used their resources to fund Portugal’s voyages of exploration. The Order of Christ, with its Templar origins, played a vital role in supporting Portugal’s maritime empire.
Fun Fact: The monument features statues of explorers and Templar-influenced leaders who were involved in charting the new world.
Final Thoughts: The Templars in Lisbon
While Lisbon may not have many physical sites built directly by the Knights Templar, the city is full of landmarks that carry the echoes of their influence. The Order of Christ continued to shape Portugal’s destiny long after the Templars were officially dissolved. From fortresses to churches, and even in the legends and myths that surround them, the Templars’ legacy is still alive in Lisbon.
Bonus Tip: If you’re looking for more Templar-related sites in Portugal, take a short trip to Tomar.That’s the town where the Convent of Christ, a Templar masterpiece, is. It’s one of the most important Templar sites in the country!
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