Knights of Saint John

The Knights of Saint John, also known as the Knights Hospitaller, are a medieval Catholic military order founded in the 11th century to care for sick and injured pilgrims in Jerusalem. Over time, they became a powerful organization combining religious charity with military defense, especially against enemies in the Mediterranean. Today, they are known as the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, a lay religious order focused on humanitarian aid, medical assistance, and charitable activities worldwide. They operate independently of any government, guided by their religious mission to serve those in need.