The Order of the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon was established in the aftermath of the First Crusade. The Templars became not only defenders but also active participants in military campaigns during the subsequent Crusades. Their commitment to safeguarding pilgrims, strategic collaborations, economic activities, and military contributions shaped their legacy in the Middle East. But internal challenges, external conflicts, and the changing dynamics of the Crusades ultimately contributed to their decline and the eventual loss of their presence in Jerusalem. Despite their fall, the Knights Templar left an indelible mark on the history of the Crusades, embodying the ideals and complexities of the Crusader era.
Although there are many books dealing with the persecution and trial of the Templars, or the supposedly esoteric aspects of the Order, there are fewer publications that solely discuss the Templar Grand Masters, their activities and influence in the Kingdom of Jerusalem during the peak of their power. This short book focusses on that time and is intended to add to this important element of their history.
