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Medieval Encyclopedia Entry 1776332111

** The Knights Templar was a medieval military order that played a pivotal role in the development of Western civilization, known for their military prowess, financial acumen, and spiritual devotion. **CONTENT:** ### Overview The Knights Templar, also known as the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and the Temple of Solomon, was a Christian military order founded in the early 12th century. The order was established by nine French knights, led by Hugh de Payens, with the goal of protecting Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. Over time, the Knights Templar evolved into a powerful and influential organization, with a vast network of temples, commanderies, and knights across Europe. The Knights Templar were known for their distinctive white mantles with a red cross, which became a symbol of their order. They were also renowned for their martial skills, financial expertise, and spiritual devotion. The order's headquarters, the Temple of Solomon in Jerusalem, was said to be the site of the Holy Sepulchre, where Jesus Christ was buried. This sacred location became a focal point for the Knights Templar's spiritual mission. The Knights Templar's influence extended far beyond their military and financial activities. They played a significant role in the development of Western civilization, contributing to the growth of trade, commerce, and culture. Their financial expertise and innovative banking practices helped to establish the modern banking system, while their military prowess and strategic alliances helped to shape the course of European history. ### History/Background The Knights Templar were founded in 1118 by Hugh de Payens, a French knight, and eight other companions. The order was initially established to protect Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land, but it soon evolved into a more complex organization with a wide range of activities. In 1129, the Knights Templar were formally recognized by the Catholic Church, and they began to receive papal support and funding. The Knights Templar's early success was due in part to their military prowess and strategic alliances. They formed close relationships with the kings of France and England, and they played a key role in several major battles, including the Battle of Hattin in 1187. The order's financial expertise and innovative banking practices also helped to establish them as a major force in European finance. However, the Knights Templar's success also led to controversy and criticism. They were accused of heresy, blasphemy, and financial impropriety, and they were eventually dissolved by King Philip IV of France in 1307. The order's Grand Master, Jacques de Molay, was burned at the stake in 1308, marking the end of the Knights Templar as a major force in European history. ### Key Information * **Founding:** 1118 * **Headquarters:** Temple of Solomon in Jerusalem * **Membership:** Estimated 15,000-20,000 knights and sergeants * **Financial expertise:** Developed modern banking practices, including the use of checks and credit cards * **Military prowess:** Played a key role in several major battles, including the Battle of Hattin * **Spiritual devotion:** Focused on the worship of the Holy Trinity and the veneration of the Holy Sepulchre * **Dissolution:** 1307, by King Philip IV of France ### Significance The Knights Templar played a pivotal role in the development of Western civilization, contributing to the growth of trade, commerce, and culture. Their financial expertise and innovative banking practices helped to establish the modern banking system, while their military prowess and strategic alliances helped to shape the course of European history. The Knights Templar's legacy can be seen in the many organizations and institutions that they influenced, including the Freemasons, the Order of the Garter, and the modern-day Catholic Church. Their symbol, the white mantle with a red cross, has become a powerful and enduring symbol of courage, sacrifice, and devotion. **INFOBOX:** - **Name:** The Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and the Temple of Solomon - **Type:** Christian military order - **Date:** 1118-1307 - **Location:** Europe, Middle East - **Known For:** Military prowess, financial expertise, spiritual devotion **TAGS:** Knights Templar, medieval history, Christian military order, financial expertise, military prowess, spiritual devotion, Temple of Solomon, Holy Sepulchre, Western civilization, modern banking system.