Welcome to Tomar, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Portugal, where history, culture, and beauty converge to create an unforgettable destination. This enchanting city beckons travelers with its ancient fortresses, stunning architecture, and rich tapestry of traditions. Step into a world where cobblestone streets lead to hidden treasures, where each corner reveals a story waiting to be told.
ABOUT THE HISTORY YOU CAN DISCOVER...
Tomar, a historic city in central Portugal, was founded by the Knights Templar in the 12th century as a stronghold to defend against Moorish invasions and protect pilgrims. The Templars established the impressive Convent of Christ atop the hill, later becoming the headquarters of the Order of Christ. During the Age of Discovery, Tomar became a hub for Portuguese exploration, with many navigators departing from nearby ports. The city flourished during the Renaissance, showcasing the Manueline style in its architecture. Despite periods of decline, Tomar remained an important religious and cultural center, preserving its rich heritage. Today, it attracts visitors with its historic landmarks, including the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ, blending medieval charm with modern amenities.
Convent of Christ, ©VisitPortugal
Convent of Christ, ©VisitPortugal
ABOUT THE VIEWS YOU CAN SEE...
Tomar's architecture is a testament to its rich history and cultural significance. Dominated by the imposing Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city showcases a blend of architectural styles spanning centuries. The Convent itself is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, characterized by intricate stone carvings, ribbed vaults, and maritime motifs. Its cloisters, chapels, and fortified walls reflect the grandeur of Portugal's golden age of exploration. Beyond the Convent, Tomar boasts a charming mix of medieval streets, Renaissance palaces, and Baroque churches, each contributing to the city's unique architectural tapestry. Whether wandering through the narrow alleys of the old town or admiring the grand facades of historic buildings, visitors to Tomar are treated to a visual feast of architectural wonders that tell the story of Portugal's past.
Santa Iria Convent, A Somewhat Mysterious Building, ©VisitPortugal
ABOUT THE FOOD YOU CAN EAT...
Its gastronomy is deeply rooted in the traditional flavors of central Portugal, offering a delightful array of dishes that reflect the region's history and cultural influences. Local specialties often feature fresh seafood, including codfish prepared in various ways, such as bacalhau à Brás or bacalhau com natas. Meat lovers can savor succulent roasted lamb or pork, often seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices. Traditional stews like cozido à portuguesa, a hearty mix of meats, sausages, and vegetables, are also popular. Tomar is renowned for its delicious sweets and pastries, with specialties like pastéis de nata (custard tarts), travesseiros (almond-filled pastries), and fatias de Tomar (sweet egg-based dessert) tempting visitors at local bakeries and cafes. Accompanying meals, local wines from nearby vineyards, such as the robust reds from the Ribatejo region, or refreshing Vinho Verde, add to the culinary experience. Whether dining in cozy taverns, family-run restaurants, or street-side cafes, visitors to Tomar are sure to indulge in a gastronomic journey that celebrates the rich flavors and traditions of Portuguese cuisine.
Cozido À Portuguesa (©CozinhaTradicional), Fatias de Tomar (©24Kitchen), Bacalhau À Brás (©PingoDoce), Pastel de Tentúgal (©SaposViagem)
ABOUT THE FESTIVITIES YOU CAN ENJOY...
Tomar hosts several lively festivities throughout the year, showcasing its vibrant culture and traditions. One of the most famous events is the Festa dos Tabuleiros (Festival of the Trays), held every four years in July. This colorful festival features processions of women carrying tall trays adorned with bread and flowers on their heads, symbolizing fertility and abundance. It is accompanied by music, dancing, and street performances, attracting visitors from near and far. Additionally, the Romaria de São Pedro de Tomar, celebrated in June, honors the city's patron saint with religious processions, fairs, and cultural events. Other notable festivities include the Festa de Santa Iria in October, the Feira de Santa Iria in October, a traditional fair with local crafts and gastronomy, and the Festas dos Santos in June, dedicated to Saint Anthony, Saint John, and Saint Peter, featuring street parties and fireworks. Throughout the year, Tomar offers a vibrant calendar of events that provide visitors with opportunities to immerse themselves in the city's rich heritage and lively atmosphere.
Festa dos Tabuleiros, ©IATI
TOMAR, A CITY FULL OF WONDERFUL INSPIRATIONS...
Inspired by the vibrant hues and timeless charm of the city of Tomar in Portugal, our pendant light captures the essence of this historic destination. Drawing from the rich history and cultural heritage of Tomar, our design pays homage to traditional craftsmanship while infusing a modern twist. The Tomar pendant light is a reinterpretation of the suspended tray, a beloved fixture commonly crafted in enamel during the 1920s and 1930s. Evoking the spirit of Portuguese tradition, our pendant light is meticulously crafted in Portugal, marrying classic elegance with contemporary design. The bottle green color, reminiscent of the iconic ceramic kitchenware found throughout Portugal, adds a touch of sophistication and warmth to any space. Reflecting the soul of Tomar within its design, our pendant light is more than just a luminary – it's a timeless piece that illuminates the beauty of Portugal's past and present.
Green Olive Tomar Pendant Light, by Luz Editions
SO ABOVE ALL...
As the sun sets over Tomar, casting a golden glow upon its medieval walls, one cannot help but feel the magic of this storied city. With each step, history comes alive, revealing layers of heritage waiting to be explored. From the grandeur of the Convent of Christ to the quaint charm of its cobblestone alleys, Tomar captivates the imagination and leaves an indelible mark on the heart. Whether savoring local delicacies, joining in festive revelries, or simply wandering its timeless streets, Tomar offers a journey through time unlike any other. Embrace its allure, immerse yourself in its traditions, and let the spirit of Tomar carry you on a voyage of discovery, where the past meets the present in perfect harmony.
Orange Earth Tomar Pendant Light, by Luz Editions
Ref. Visit Portugal, Euro Dicas Turismo, IATI, My Best Hotel, Explorandar, Cozinha Tradicional, Pingo Doce, Kayak, Expresso, Sapo Viagens
The cover image is from Expresso, showing the Convent of Christ.