Hugh de Payens

Hugh de Payens was a French knight notable for co-founding the Knights Templar around 1119. This medieval military order was originally established to protect Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land after the First Crusade. De Payens became the order's first Grand Master, leading it in both military and religious roles. The Knights Templar gained immense wealth and power during the Crusades and played a significant role in medieval European history, known for their distinctive white mantles adorned with a red cross. De Payens' leadership and the order's influence left a lasting legacy in European chivalry and Christian history.