Mystery & History : Knights Templar

A military order that began circa 1129, the Knights Templar remained active until the first part of the fourteenth century. Templar knights wore pristine white mantles that sported a bright red cross. Known for military prowess, these highly skilled fighting units reached prominence during the Crusades. A major financial institution, the Knights Templar managed a large economic infrastructure throughout Europe. At dawn on Friday, Oct. 13, 1307 (possibly the origin the Friday the thirteenth superstition), French King Philip IV ordered the arrest and execution of the Knights Templar Grand Master Jacque de Molay and scores of other leading knights.

Kevin K. Main is an author and lecturer on the subjects of history, philosophy, and religious symbolism, particularly that of Ancient Greece and Europe during the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the Enlightenment period. He has been a student of the history of the Knights Templar and early Christianity for over 20 years.