The Knights Templar Kent is an organisation founded in the United Kingdom in 2020 with the aim of reviving the spirit of the original Order of the Poor Knights of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon, often referred to as the Knights Templar. This modern-day order follows a similar code to that of its predecessor, embracing chivalry and honour, and seeking to improve the lives of all people through charitable works and social justice. The Knights Templar Kent are inspired by the values and principles which made up the ethos of this ancient order, and strive to bring these values into modern life. The Knights Templar first arrived in Kent, England in 1185 when King Henry II granted them land at Dover Castle. The Templar Order had been founded in Jerusalem in 1118 by Hugues de Payens and eight other knights to protect Christian pilgrims on their way to the Holy Land. From this base in Dover, the Templars spread their influence across Kent, acquiring more lands and rights from various kings and lords.
The Order’s popularity was boosted by the patronage of King John who granted them more land around Canterbury, Sandwich, Rochester and Tonbridge. By 1217 the Templars had become one of the most powerful landholders in Kent as well as one of its largest employers. The Templars were also heavily involved in maritime trade and built a number of ports along the coast of Kent including those at Hythe, Deal and Sandwich.
The Templars’ fortunes began to decline during the reign of Edward I who ordered their dissolution after accusations of heresy against them were brought forth by Philip IV of France in 1307. All their lands were confiscated and given to the Knights Hospitallers who had already been granted some properties by Edward I. Although there is little evidence left today, it is clear that for over 200 years the Knights Templar played an important role in shaping the history of Kent.
Influence of the Knights Templar on Kent
The Knights Templar had a significant impact on the history and development of Kent. The famous military order was established in 1119 and, over the next two centuries, it grew to become one of the most powerful and influential organisations in Europe. In England, the Templars were especially influential in Kent, where they built a series of castles, churches and monasteries that still stand today.
The most significant Templar presence in Kent was at Temple Ewell near Dover. Here, the Templars built a fortified manor house and chapel which served as their regional headquarters. The site was also used to store valuable religious relics and documents belonging to the order. In addition to this, a number of other Templar sites are scattered throughout Kent including at Chilham Castle, Lyminge Church and St Mary’s Church in Kingston-upon-Thames.
The Templars also had an influence on the economy of Kent. During their time in England, they acquired vast tracts of land which were used for agricultural production as well as for mining iron ore. This provided much needed employment for local people as well as helping to stimulate trade. The order also made generous donations to local churches and monasteries which helped to support education and culture in the region.
Therefore, it is worth noting that many of the customs associated with modern Freemasonry can be traced back to rituals practiced by the Knights Templar during their time in Britain. In particular, many Masonic lodges use symbols derived from those used by the Templars such as the square and compass or stylised sword designs – all reminders of their legacy within Kent.
In reflection, there is no doubt that the Knights Templar had a major impact on the history and development of Kent during medieval times. Their presence can still be seen today at various sites across the county – testament to their legacy within this region.
The Role of the Knights Templar in the Crusades
The Knights Templar were a powerful military and religious organization during the time of the Crusades. They were founded in 1120 by nine French knights to protect pilgrims traveling to and from the Holy Land. The order slowly grew in power and influence, becoming one of the most influential forces in Europe during the Middle Ages. They were known for their courage, piety, and military prowess, and they played a significant role in many of the battles that took place during the Crusades.
The Templars were renowned for their ability to mount successful campaigns against Muslim armies. They used tactics such as ambushes and surprise attacks to gain an advantage over their enemies. They also had access to some of the best weaponry and equipment available at that time, such as siege engines like catapults and trebuchets.
Their reputation as fierce warriors was well-deserved, but they were also skilled negotiators and diplomats. The Templars often acted as mediators between Christian rulers and Muslim leaders during conflicts, helping to resolve disputes peacefully when possible. This allowed them to gain control of key strategic locations such as castles or cities without engaging in costly battles.
The Templars also provided financial assistance to other crusaders, helping them buy supplies or hire mercenaries for their campaigns. This gave them considerable leverage over other orders and allowed them to influence events on both sides of the conflict.
The Templars’ role in the Crusades was essential for both Christian and Muslim sides; without their help many battles would have likely ended differently or never even taken place at all. They will always be remembered as one of the most influential groups in medieval history, having played an important part in shaping European politics for centuries afterwards.
Knights Templar
The Knights Templar were a religious military order in the Middle Ages that was active in many parts of Europe, including England. Founded in 1118 by nine French knights, the original purpose of the order was to protect pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. Over time, they became wealthy and powerful, and eventually owned numerous castles throughout Europe. In England, they had a significant presence and owned many castles in Kent.
Castles in Kent
One of the most prominent castles in Kent associated with the Knights Templar is Rochester Castle. This castle was originally built by Bishop Gundulf of Rochester around 1087 and was later taken over by the Templars during the 12th century. It is believed that this castle was used by them as a base for their operations in England and also a place for storing their wealth.
Another important castle in Kent linked to the Templars is Chilham Castle. This medieval fortress was built around 1150 by William de Auberville, one of the founding members of the Knights Templar. The castle remained in Templar hands until 1307 when it passed into royal control following their dissolution.
Last Thoughts
The Knights Templar had a significant presence in England, especially in Kent where several castles were owned or operated by them. Rochester Castle and Chilham Castle are two important examples that still stand today and provide an insight into this powerful medieval order’s activities during that time period.
The Impact of the Knights Templar on the Economy and Politics of Kent
The Knights Templar, a religious and military order of the Catholic Church, had a significant impact on the economy and politics of Kent during the Middle Ages. The Knights Templar had been granted considerable landholdings in England by King John in 1203. This included lands in Kent, which they used to further their interests.
The Order’s presence in Kent was influential in a variety of ways. Firstly, they provided protection to travellers making their way through the county. This not only ensured safe passage for people travelling to and from London, but also encouraged trade and commerce. This helped to boost the local economy by increasing trade links with other regions.
The Knights Templar also provided employment for many in Kent, as they built churches, castles and other structures throughout the county. This provided much-needed jobs for people living in rural areas who may not have had access to other opportunities for work.
In addition to this, the Order’s presence also had an influence on politics in Kent. The Knights Templar were known to be loyal supporters of King John and his successors; they were often called upon by kings to provide military support during times of conflict or unrest. This meant that their opinions were highly valued by those in power, and their political influence could be felt throughout Kent as well as elsewhere in England.
Therefore, it is worth noting that the Order’s presence had a lasting legacy on Kent even after its dissolution by Pope Clement V in 1312: many of its churches and castles remain standing today, providing important historical landmarks that serve as reminders of its influence centuries ago.
Overall it can be seen that the presence of the Knights Templar had a profound impact on both the economy and politics of Kent during the Middle Ages. From providing employment opportunities to influencing political decisions, their legacy has left a lasting impression on this region even today.
Architecture and Artwork Created by the Knights Templar in Kent
The Knights Templar were a powerful military order of monks in the Middle Ages. They were based in the county of Kent, England, where they had a great deal of influence. As such, much of their architecture and artwork can still be seen in the area today. From castles to churches to monasteries, the Knights Templar left behind a lasting legacy that can still be seen throughout Kent today.
The most iconic example of Templar architecture in Kent is Dover Castle. This massive castle was built in 1181 by the Knights Templar and was used as a defensive stronghold for more than 800 years. It is now owned by English Heritage and open to visitors, who can explore its many towers and secret passages.
The Templars also built several churches throughout Kent. One of the most notable examples is St Mary’s Church in Appledore, which dates back to at least 1241. The church has been restored several times since then but retains its original Gothic architecture from the 13th century. Another notable example is St Nicholas Church in Canterbury, which was built around 1220 and is one of the oldest churches still standing in England today.
The Templars also left behind various works of art that are still visible today in Kent. One of these is an ornate bronze doorway at St Peter-in-Thanet Church in Ramsgate, which dates back to 1250 and is believed to have been crafted by a Templar artisan. There are also some stone carvings from the 12th century at Portchester Castle near Folkestone, which are thought to have been created by Templars as well.
Overall, it’s clear that the Knights Templar left an indelible mark on Kent’s landscape during their time there. From majestic castles to ornate churches and artwork, their legacy continues to live on today through their architectural and artistic creations all over the county.
The Legends Surrounding the Knights Templar in Kent
The Knights Templar were a powerful and mysterious religious order of knights that was active during the Middle Ages. They were founded in 1119 and were known for their dedication to defending Christianity and their commitment to protecting pilgrims on their journey to the Holy Land. The Knights Templar had a strong presence in Kent, England and they left behind many legends and stories about their activities in the area.
One of the most famous legends surrounding the Templars is that they had a secret base underneath Dover Castle. It is said that this base was used as a refuge by the Templars when they were being persecuted by King Philip IV of France in 1307. The legend states that this secret base was accessed via underground tunnels, which have never been found.
Another legend states that the Templars used an underground tunnel system to transport their treasure from London to Dover Castle. This legend has grown over time and now it is believed that this tunnel system may have stretched all the way to Jerusalem. This legend has gained some credence due to archaeological evidence which suggests there may have been a tunnel system leading from London to Dover Castle during this period of time.
A third legend tells of a secret code known as ‘The Secret of St John’. It is believed that this code was used by the Templars and was connected with a hidden treasure located somewhere near Dover Castle. Unfortunately, no one has ever been able to find this treasure or decipher the code, so its existence remains unconfirmed today.
Therefore, there is also a legend of an ancient stone circle located near Dover Castle which is said to be connected with the Knights Templar. This stone circle is supposedly made up of twelve stones arranged in an oval shape around a central stone, although its true origin remains unknown today.
These are just some of the legends surrounding the Knights Templar in Kent, England. Although these stories cannot be confirmed, they do provide an interesting glimpse into this mysterious order’s past activities in England’s South East corner.
Religious Beliefs of the Knights Templar in Kent
The Knights Templar were a religious military order that was active in Christendom from the mid-12th to the early 14th century. They were based in the Kingdom of Jerusalem and had a significant presence in many other European countries, including England and Scotland. The religious beliefs of the Knights Templar in Kent were largely shaped by their experiences in the Holy Land and by their close contact with other Christian orders such as the Hospitallers and Teutonic Knights.
The Templars followed a number of precepts which formed their code of conduct. These included vows of poverty, chastity, loyalty, obedience, and self-discipline. They also followed a strict code of martial practice which included training in weaponry, horsemanship, and chivalry. The Templars believed that service to God was best undertaken through acts of valor and piety, such as sacrificing their lives to protect Christian pilgrims on their way to the Holy Land.
In addition to these core beliefs, the Templars had a strong devotion to Mary, mother of Jesus. This devotion manifested itself in special devotions such as praying before images or statues of Mary, or wearing her symbol on their garments as a sign of dedication and protection. The Templars also held fast to the Catholic faith as they knew it at that time; they believed that engaging in activities such as attending Mass or praying for forgiveness for sins was necessary for spiritual growth.
Furthermore, during their time in England, the Templars adopted some local customs which they thought would help them better serve God’s will. For example, they practiced pilgrimage rituals involving visiting churches dedicated to St Thomas Becket or other local saints whose relics were believed to possess miraculous powers. Such practices served as an important part of their spiritual journey while at home in England.
In reflection, the religious beliefs of the Knights Templar in Kent were largely based on what was taught by other Christian orders who had been active before them, combined with local customs that they adopted during their stay there. Their devotion to Mary was strong throughout their existence; they also held steadfastly to their Catholic faith while engaging in various pilgrimages and rituals which helped them grow spiritually while away from Jerusalem.
Last Thoughts
The Knights Templar of Kent played an important role in the history of the county. They brought a sense of order and stability to the region, and were instrumental in protecting it from foreign aggression. Their legacy can still be seen today in the many castle ruins, churches, and monuments which remain as reminders of their presence. The Knights Templar also left behind a rich legacy of literature, art, and architecture that will continue to influence Kent for generations to come.
The Knights Templar’s influence on Kent was strong and far-reaching. They provided protection for the region, helped to preserve its heritage, and made it a centre of learning and culture. Their legacy is one that will continue to be remembered for centuries to come.
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Overall it can be seen that the presence of the Knights Templar had a profound impact on both the economy and politics of Kent during the Middle Ages. From providing employment opportunities to influencing political decisions, their legacy has left a lasting impression on this region even today.