Dornes

Dornes is historically significant due to its connection to the Knights Templar, a medieval military order that played a key role in the history of Portugal and the broader Christian world during the Middle Ages. The Templars were known for their role in the Crusades, their military prowess, and their establishment of strongholds and commanderies across Europe.

Dornes and the Templars:
Dornes is particularly noted for its Templar castle, known as Castelo de Dornes, which is located on a hill overlooking the Zêzere River. The castle dates back to the 12th century, and it was likely established by the Knights Templar to help secure the region during the Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula from the Moors.

Key Points about Dornes and the Templars:

• The Templar Castle: The castle of Dornes was built as part of the Templars’ network of fortresses designed to protect the lands they had acquired. Though much of the original structure has been altered or destroyed over the centuries, remnants of the Templar presence, such as the castle’s tower and defensive walls, remain. The castle was strategically positioned to oversee the river and the surrounding region.
• Templar Influence: Dornes was part of the larger Templar influence in Portugal, especially in the central and northern parts of the country. After the dissolution of the Templar order in the early 14th century, much of their wealth and lands were transferred to the Order of Christ, a new order created by King Dinis of Portugal. The Templars’ legacy, therefore, continued in Dornes through the Order of Christ, which inherited the castle and other Templar assets.
• The Round Church: One of the most notable Templar-related sites in Dornes is the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Pranto, also known as the Templar church. This round church, similar to other Templar churches found throughout Europe, is believed to have been built or influenced by the Knights Templar. Its circular design is reminiscent of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, which was an important symbol for the Templars.

Historical Significance:
The Templars were granted land by the Portuguese monarchy, and in return, they helped defend and expand Portuguese territories. In Dornes, as in other parts of Portugal, the Templars contributed to the religious and military fabric of the country. Over time, however, their power diminished after the order was suppressed in the early 1300s, and many of their assets were absorbed by the Order of Christ, which continued to play a significant role in Portuguese exploration and the Age of Discovery.

Today, Dornes retains its historical charm, with the Templar heritage being an important part of its identity. Visitors to the village can still see remnants of the Templar presence, and the picturesque setting of the village, combined with its rich history, makes it a notable destination for those interested in medieval history and the legacy of the Templars in Portugal.