Order of Christ

A Portuguese order created in 1319 as the successor to the Templars. Although centered in Portugal, it had influence across the Iberian Peninsula.

The Order of Christ was established in 1319 by King Denis I of Portugal as the direct successor to the Knights Templar within Portuguese territories. While Pope Clement V had dissolved the Templars in 1312, the Portuguese crown successfully petitioned to transfer all former Templar properties, rights, and many personnel to this new order, effectively preserving the Templar legacy under a different name.

The order's headquarters at the Convent of Christ in Tomar became one of the most magnificent monastic complexes in all of Europe, combining Templar, Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance architectural styles. The famous Charola — the original Templar rotunda — remains one of Portugal's most iconic monuments.

Although centered in Portugal, the Order of Christ's influence extended across the Iberian Peninsula and eventually across the world. Prince Henry the Navigator, as the order's administrator, used its vast resources to fund the Portuguese voyages of exploration. The order's distinctive red cross on white sails became the symbol of Portugal's maritime empire, making it arguably the most globally influential successor to the Knights Templar.

Notable sites

• Convent of Christ in Tomar

Where the order was active

• extremadura