As someone who has always been fascinated by history and the supernatural, moving to Tomar opened a world of untold stories. This ancient town, with its rich history dating back to the Knights Templar, is not only beautiful but also filled with eerie legends and ghostly encounters.
One of the most exciting parts of developing the Tomar Ghost Walk is speaking with locals and uncovering their personal experiences with the unexplained. These are the stories that you won’t find in history books, but instead in the memories and whispers of those who have lived here their whole lives.
The Taxi Driver and the Lady in Black
A few weeks ago, I had an unforgettable conversation with a local taxi driver. He had worked in Tomar for over 20 years and claimed to have seen some strange things on the winding roads just outside the town.
One night, while driving down an isolated road, he saw a figure standing in the middle of his path—a woman, dressed entirely in black. At first, he thought she must have been lost or in trouble, so he slowed down. But as his headlights illuminated her figure, something didn’t feel right. She didn’t move. She didn’t wave for help. She just stood there, staring. He described feeling a cold chill run down his spine.
As he got closer, the figure vanished. He stopped the car, stunned and bewildered, but there was no trace of her. Other taxi drivers in the area later told him similar stories—always the same woman, appearing late at night, only to vanish as quickly as she appeared.
Unearthing Local Legends
This encounter, like many others I’ve collected, adds a layer of mystery to Tomar’s already captivating history. From bar owners haunted by strange noises and apparitions, to residents who have locked ghostly soldiers in their cellars, these stories are passed down, often quietly, and shared only with those willing to listen.
When you speak to the people of Tomar, it’s clear that while many may not believe in ghosts, they respect these stories. They see them as part of the fabric of their town—a glimpse into another world that hovers just beyond the one we know.
Bringing These Stories to Life
This is how I create the Tomar Ghost Walk—by sitting with locals over coffee or a glass of wine, listening to their extraordinary tales. Each story comes with its own blend of folklore, mystery, and personal truth. And, as I piece them together, I realise how deeply they’re connected to Tomar’s history and spirit.
So, when you join us on the Ghost Walk, you aren’t just stepping into a world of haunted legends—you’re stepping into the memories of the people who have lived them.