9.27.2010

Tomar and the Templars

The Charola was the site for prays of the Templars in the beginning of the XII Century. This construction included a cylindrical structure exhibiting large influence from the East, a influence which was brought to Europe by the Templars when they return from Jerusalem. The center of the Charola is formed by 8 columns (3+5) and four of them support two saints. Representations of the Passion of Christ, sculptures in wood and a representation of the Virgin Mary with St. John, the Evangelist, are visible inside.  If one looks from the floor (in the center of the columns) to the ceiling the squaring of the Circle is perceived.