Tracking the Mysterious Templars: A Journey Through Portugal's History
The Knights Templar have captivated imaginations for over 900 years, ever since their founding in Jerusalem around 1118 or 1119. Officially known as the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon, this enigmatic order continues to inspire books, video games, and movies, all drawn to the Templars’ secretive past.
Shrouded in mystery, the Templars are believed to have had a lasting influence on various groups and movements, including the Freemasons, who are said to have adopted Templar symbols and initiation ceremonies. There’s even a belief that the temperance movement drew inspiration from the early Templars’ alleged abstinence from alcohol.
The Templars' Arrival in Portugal
The Knights Templar first arrived in Portugal in the 12th century, joining the nation’s struggle against the Islamic presence in Iberia during the Reconquista. They made their mark early on, participating in the siege and capture of Santarém in 1147, followed by the fall of Lisbon later that year. As a reward, Portugal's first king, Afonso Henriques, began granting them lands and properties.
It’s estimated that the Templars first set foot in Portugal in 1124. The earliest document confirming their presence dates back to 1128 when Countess Teresa of León donated Castelo de Soure near Coimbra to the order.
With their initial military actions—defending Soure Castle from Almoravid attacks and aiding in the conquest of Santarém—the Templars earned royal recognition. In return for their services, they received numerous donations during Afonso Henriques’ reign, including the castles of Longroiva, Mogadouro, Penas Roias, Idanha, and Monsanto.
The Rise of the Templars in Portugal
The Templars quickly established themselves in key Portuguese cities like Coimbra, Lisbon, and Santarém, amassing significant wealth and influence. Their golden age in Portugal came under the leadership of Gualdim Pais (1118-1195), who returned to Portugal after participating in the First Crusade and was appointed Grand Master of the Order of Knights Templar.
In 1160, construction began on the castle and convent in Tomar, which would become the Templars' headquarters in Portugal. The construction took nine years to complete, and soon after, the Templars began building additional fortresses north of the Tagus River in places like Almourol, Cardiga, Zêzere, Pombal, and Castelo Branco. These fortresses were part of a broader strategy to defend and develop border settlements.
In 1169, King Afonso Henriques offered the Templars a third of the lands they could conquer south of the Tagus. However, this offer didn’t seem to entice them, as the order had little presence in southern Portugal. Instead, it was the Order of Santiago that would go on to complete the conquest of the Alentejo and Algarve regions.
The history of the Knights Templar in Portugal is a fascinating chapter in the story of this mysterious order. From their early military exploits to their significant influence on Portuguese history, the Templars left an indelible mark on the nation that continues to intrigue historians and enthusiasts alike.