The Templars

The Templars, or Knights Templar, were a medieval Christian military order founded around 1119 during the Crusades. Their primary mission was to protect pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. The Templars gained wealth and power through donations and military successes, establishing a network of fortifications and banking. Known for their distinctive white mantles adorned with a red cross, they became symbols of chivalry and religious devotion. However, by the early 14th century, political and financial pressures led to their arrest and dissolution by King Philip IV of France, marking the end of their prominence and the rise of numerous legends surrounding them.