It was time to move on again. We enjoyed our time in Coimbra, but we’re moving south again. Our next destination was just an hour’s drive, though we made it a little longer in two ways.

Our driver Miguel lives in Coimbra and suggested that we take the side roads instead of the highway. Since we weren’t in a hurry, we thought that would be a great idea to be able to see some of the small towns and countryside.

Miguel’s second suggestion was a brief stop in the town of Conímbriga. We would be passing right by it and he thought we might be interested in seeing the Roman ruins that were discovered there. What’s better for an old guy’s ego than seeing something much older? So, we agreed to stop.

The ride down was very nice. Lots of scenery including small towns, olive trees and lots of greenery. Miguel’s car was a Tesla S that was roomy and comfortable, plus we were able to see all the gadgets built in. The GPS screen was as big as my TV – cool!

We arrived and could see that the area was quite expansive. We bought our tickets – 4 Euro Senior Rate – and headed towards the ruins.

Well, let me tell you, we’re not talking about a couple of stones some farmer dug up. They have uncovered a large section of defensive wall, some shops and two or three private residences. There are also the remains of an amphitheater and a forum area. They even found a section of an aqueduct and a garden with fountains.

The mosaics and intricate designs of the tiles were really beautiful. The wall was also about 12 feet thick, all hand-built. Yet during sieges, the enemy still found ways to break through.

We continued on our way to Tomar. Miguel pointed out another Templar Castle in the town of Penela. Anyone looking for a little holiday getaway?

Just a short time later, we rounded a bend and you could see the mountaintop castle in Tomar. We were hoping that there would be a knight waiting at the entrance bridge or even better, a drawbridge to get into town. Alas, there were just signs leading the way.

Miguel squeezed that Tesla down some pretty narrow streets, but did so with skill and precision. Pulling along the town square, our hotel beckoned us. We had arrived.