The Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon

The Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon, commonly known as the Knights Templar, were a medieval Christian military order founded around 1119 AD. Their main purpose was to protect pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land after the First Crusade. They became known for their distinctive white mantles with a red cross and grew powerful and wealthy, establishing a network of castles and banks. The Templars played a significant role in the Crusades but were eventually disbanded in the early 14th century, partly due to political intrigue and accusations of heresy. Their legacy continues to inspire fascination today.