his is the altar in the chapel of
the Templar Castle in Tomar, Portugal.
omar Castle was built in 1160 by Gualdim
Pais, Master of the Temple in Portugal. The round chapel was a fortress church
dating from the building of the castle (XII century). The octagonal form
was inspired by oriental architecture motifs found in Palestine. There are
many architectonic styles in Christ Convent (inside the Castle): Roman, Gothic,
Renaissance, etc.
he Templars were not persecuted in
Portugal. They were allowed to change their name to Knights of Christ. Henry
(the Navigator) was Master of this Order and Tomar was the headquarters.
