Knight Hospitaller

The Knights Hospitaller, formally known as the Order of St. John, was a medieval Christian military order founded around 1099 in Jerusalem. Initially established to provide care for sick and injured pilgrims, the organization evolved into a powerful military force during the Crusades. They were known for their distinctive black robes with a white cross and played a significant role in both military and hospital care. Over time, the order acquired territories, particularly on the island of Rhodes and later Malta, where they established a stronghold against Ottoman forces. Today, they are recognized as a humanitarian organization.