founded c. 1119–1120sReputable source · 2 sourcesWell documented
The Military Orders: Templars and Hospitallers
On the timeline · around founded c. 1119–1120s ·
What happened
To defend the Holy Land and protect pilgrims, new religious orders of warrior-monks were founded — above all the Knights Templar and the Knights Hospitaller. Bound by monastic vows yet trained for war, they became elite fighting forces, built formidable castles, and — especially the Templars — grew into a wealthy international banking network.
Why it matters
The military orders were among the most powerful and distinctive institutions of the crusading age. The Templars' later suppression and the Hospitallers' long survival left a legacy that echoes in legend to this day.
Sources
- World History Encyclopedia. Knights Templar · Reputable source
- World History Encyclopedia. Knights Hospitaller · Reputable source