Knights Templar

Show notes

The podcast offers a comprehensive overview of the Knights Templar, a powerful Catholic military order that existed for nearly two centuries. It details their establishment in 1118 to protect pilgrims to Jerusalem, their rapid growth in wealth and influence through innovative banking practices and donations, and their significant role in the Crusades as skilled fighting units. The podcast also explains their decline, arrests, and dissolution under pressure from King Philip IV of France in 1312, highlighting the unjust nature of the charges and the Pope's eventual absolution of the order. Finally, the podcast explores their enduring legacy, including their integration into orders like the Portuguese Order of Christ and their influence on modern organizations and popular culture, while also dispelling common misconceptions and conspiracy theories.