The Knights Templar Orkney is an international fraternal order dedicated to the preservation of the ancient Knights Templar ideals and traditions. Founded in 1980, it is a non-political, non-sectarian organization open to all who believe in the virtues of Knighthood and respect for all people regardless of race, religion or creed. The Order is based upon the ancient traditions of the original Knights Templar and their commitment to defend Christianity and defend the helpless. The Order has branches throughout Europe, North America, South America, Australia and New Zealand. The Knights Templar were a religious military order that was founded during the Crusades in 1118 and active until the early 1300s. The Order was based in the Holy Land, but had branches across Europe, including in Orkney. In Orkney, the Knights Templar were granted lands by King Haakon IV of Norway in 1225 and were given permission to build a chapel on St. John’s Island near Kirkwall. This chapel is thought to be the earliest building in Scotland associated with the Templars.
The Order was suppressed by Pope Clement V in 1312 and disbanded by King Philip IV of France two years later. However, many believe that some of the former Templars found refuge among their fellow Christians in Orkney, where they continued to practice their faith and traditions for many years after their demise elsewhere.
Today, there are still reminders of the Templars’ presence in Orkney – from ancient chapels such as St. John’s to place-names such as “Temple” and “Templar Street”. For anyone interested in exploring this fascinating chapter of history, it is possible to visit some of these sites on guided tours around Kirkwall and its environs.
Origin of the Knights Templar in Orkney
The Knights Templar, a powerful order of warrior-monks, were founded in 1118 in Jerusalem. Although they had their origins in the Holy Land, their influence eventually spread throughout Europe and beyond. Their presence in Orkney, however, remains a mystery. While there is some debate as to why they came to the islands and when they did so, it is generally accepted that the Templars did indeed have a presence in Orkney at some point during the Middle Ages.
The earliest evidence of a Templar presence in Orkney comes from documents related to King Alexander II’s visit to Orkney in 1217. During his visit he granted lands to various people, including several members of the Order of Knights Templar of Scotland. It is unclear why Alexander chose to grant lands to the Templars; however, it does suggest that there was already some kind of relationship between them and Orkney’s ruling family at this time.
It has been suggested that the Templars may have come to Orkney for a variety of reasons; one theory is that they were seeking refuge from persecution following their dissolution by Pope Clement V in 1312. Another possibility is that they were drawn by rumors of buried treasure on the islands; as an order devoted to protecting pilgrims and holy sites, it would make sense for them to search for any valuable artifacts or relics which may have been hidden away on the islands.
Whatever their purpose may have been for coming to Orkney, it seems clear that they had some kind of presence there during the Middle Ages. Whether their stay was brief or long-term remains uncertain; however, there is still much speculation about this significant moment in history.
Who Were the Knights Templar?
The Knights Templar were a powerful and influential medieval military order of Christian knights founded in 1118 AD. They were a highly trained and disciplined fighting force that fought in the Crusades, and were particularly known for their bravery and courage in battle. The order was founded in Jerusalem by nine French knights, and was originally intended to protect pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land. Over time, however, they became an important part of European politics and society.
The Templars became incredibly powerful and influential, owning large tracts of land across Europe and amassing vast wealth. They also developed a complex system of governance which was largely independent from other European powers. Their military might allowed them to play an important role in many conflicts between different European nations.
The Templars also developed a complex set of rituals, symbols and allegiances which helped them to maintain their cohesion as an organization despite their widespread influence. These included secret initiation ceremonies, oaths of loyalty and brotherhood, and a special code of conduct for members of the order.
As their power grew, so did their reputation for piety and dedication to the Christian faith, which made them even more popular amongst Europeans. This eventually led to accusations that they had become overly powerful and corruptible; these accusations eventually resulted in their dissolution by Pope Clement V in 1312 AD.
Despite this setback, the legacy of the Knights Templar continues to this day; they are still revered as one of the most influential religious military orders in history. Their story continues to fascinate people around the world, making them one of the most enduring symbols of medieval chivalry.
The Role of the Knights Templar in Orkney
The Knights Templar were a religious order formed in the 12th century to protect Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. In Orkney, they are believed to have played an important role in protecting the islands from Norse and Scottish invaders. The Templars established a stronghold on the island of Lamb Holm, where they built a castle and constructed defensive walls. They also set up a network of churches throughout the islands, which served as a base for their operations and provided religious services to local people. The Templars were also involved in trading goods and providing financial assistance to local communities. It is believed that they helped to develop trade links between Orkney and other parts of Europe, which allowed for the importation of much needed supplies.
The Templars eventually disbanded in 1307 when King Philip IV of France declared them heretics and ordered their arrest. However, their legacy lives on in Orkney today, with many churches still bearing evidence of their influence. The island’s most prominent Templar-era landmark is Rosslyn Chapel, which was built by William Sinclair in 1446 as a tribute to his ancestor Henry Sinclair who served as a Grand Master of the Order during its heyday. Rosslyn Chapel contains many symbols associated with Templar beliefs, such as carvings depicting scenes from the Bible and depictions of knights on horseback carrying swords.
The Knights Templar may have left Orkney centuries ago, but their influence can still be seen today through its churches and monuments. Their legacy continues to be honored by locals who remember them for their bravery and commitment to protecting those who lived there from foreign invaders.
The Relationship Between the Templars and the Scots
The relationship between the Templars and the Scots was a long and complicated one. The Knights Templar, also known as the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon, were a Catholic military order founded in 1119 to protect pilgrims on their journeys to the Holy Land. Throughout their history, they were closely associated with Scotland, particularly during the Wars of Independence in the early 1300s.
The Templars had been active in Scotland since 1160, when Walter de Clifton was appointed Master of Scotland. They quickly gained influence over Scottish kings through their military expertise and financial acumen. By 1291, they had become so powerful that they were given special privileges by King Alexander III.
During the Wars of Independence, they provided invaluable support to Robert the Bruce and his allies. In 1307, King Edward I attempted to arrest all Templars in England and France on charges of heresy, but his orders did not extend to Scotland. This allowed many members of the Order to escape persecution, and some even continued to fight for Bruce against English forces.
In 1314 at Bannockburn, Bruce’s army defeated Edward’s larger force thanks in part to assistance from Templars who fought courageously alongside them. Afterward, most remaining Templars returned to France or Portugal; however some stayed behind in Scotland where they blended into local society or became part of other religious orders such as the Hospitallers or Masons.
The legacy of these brave knights lives on today in Scotland through several landmarks that are still associated with them including Rosslyn Chapel near Edinburgh which was founded by William Sinclair – a descendant of a Scottish Templar family – in 1446. The Order’s influence can also be seen in many local customs such as kilted Highland dress which is believed to have been inspired by their robes.
Thus it is clear that despite facing persecution elsewhere during this turbulent period in history, Scotland offered refuge for members of this ancient order who played an important role in shaping its history and culture for generations to come.
The Legacy of the Templars in Orkney
The Knights Templar were a powerful military order in the Middle Ages, and their legacy can still be seen today in many places around the world, including the islands of Orkney. The Templars had a strong presence on the islands during the 12th and 13th centuries, building churches, castles and harbours as part of their mission to protect pilgrims travelling to Jerusalem. Although much of their presence on Orkney has been lost to time, there are still some traces of their legacy that can be found today.
One of the most notable remnants of Templar activity on Orkney is St Magnus Cathedral. This 12th century cathedral was built by Earl Rognvald Brusason and dedicated to St Magnus Erlendsson in 1137. The Cathedral was built with funds from King David I of Scotland and was consecrated by Archbishop Thurstan of York. The Knights Templar had a strong presence in Orkney at this time and it is believed that they may have been involved in the construction or decoration of St Magnus Cathedral.
Another reminder of the Templars’ presence on Orkney is their castle at Kirkwall. This castle was erected around 1150 by Earl Paul Haakonson, who had been given a grant from King David I to build it for defensive purposes. It is believed that Templars were involved in its construction and may have contributed money towards its upkeep. The castle still stands today as a reminder of their influence on Orkney’s history.
Therefore, another legacy left by the Templars on Orkney is their harbour at Kirkwall Bay. This harbour was built around 1150 by Earl Paul Haakonson and it served both commercial and military purposes for many centuries. It is believed that it was used as a safe haven for ships travelling between Scotland and Norway during this time period.
Overall, although much of the legacy left behind by the Knights Templar has faded over time, there are still reminders scattered throughout Orkney that they once had an influential presence here. From castles to churches to harbours, it is clear that they played an important role in shaping not only Orkney’s history but also Scotland’s as well.
The Role of the Templars in Scotland’s History
The Knights Templar were a powerful and influential military order in medieval Europe. They had a significant presence in Scotland, where they played an important role in the country’s history. The Templars were founded in the 12th century as a Christian military order to defend the Holy Land from Muslim forces. They gradually gained power across Europe and established numerous monasteries and castles throughout Scotland.
The Templars were initially welcomed by King David I of Scotland, who granted them extensive lands and privileges. These included freedom from taxation and exemption from civil laws, which made them powerful figures in Scottish society. The Templars also held properties across Europe, which provided them with a steady income stream.
In Scotland, the Templars built several castles that served as strongholds for their knights and provided an important line of defence against enemies. One of the most famous is Rosslyn Chapel, located near Edinburgh. The chapel was built by Sir William St Clair in 1446 as part of a Templar commandery. It has become an iconic symbol associated with the Knights Templar and has been featured in various books and films about their history.
The Templars played a crucial role in protecting Christian pilgrims travelling to Jerusalem during the Crusades. They also became involved in politics and often clashed with rival orders such as the Hospitallers over control of resources and territories. In 1307, King Philip IV of France arrested many Templars on charges of heresy and disbanded their order throughout Europe, including Scotland.
Despite this setback, the legacy of the Templars still lives on today. Many castles they built still stand today as reminders of their presence in Scotland’s history. Their story has inspired generations of writers, filmmakers and historians who continue to explore their influence on medieval society.
The Significance of the Templars to Scotland’s Heritage
The Knights Templar were a powerful religious and military order that played an important role in the history of Scotland. Founded in the 12th century, the Templars were a group of warriors who devoted their lives to protecting pilgrims on their travels to and from Jerusalem. They quickly rose to prominence and became one of the wealthiest and most influential orders in Europe, with branches in most major cities across Europe, including Scotland.
The Templars’ presence in Scotland was especially notable during the Wars of Scottish Independence, when they served as a powerful ally to King Robert I. Their involvement helped secure Scotland’s independence from England and ensured that the nation was able to remain independent for centuries afterward. The Templars were also instrumental in helping rebuild many of Scotland’s cities after they had been destroyed by Edward I’s forces during the war.
In addition to their military service, the Templars also helped foster economic development throughout Scotland. The order established several trading posts throughout the country which allowed for increased trade between Europe and Britain. This increased commercial activity helped stimulate economic growth throughout Scotland and laid the foundation for its future success as an independent nation.
The legacy of the Knights Templar is still very much alive today in Scotland. The order is remembered for its role in defending Scottish independence, as well as its contribution to economic growth throughout the country. Its influence can still be seen today in many churches, monuments, and other landmarks associated with Scottish history and culture. The Order remains an important part of Scotland’s heritage, one that serves as a reminder of how far this nation has come over time.
Last Thoughts
The Knights Templar in Orkney have left a lasting legacy. They were a powerful and influential group that had a significant impact on the islands during the Middle Ages. The buildings and artifacts they left behind are reminders of their legacy and still provide insights into the era. Their influence can still be felt in the area today, from the architecture to the culture of Orkney. It is clear that they had a significant role in shaping the region for centuries to come.
The Knights Templar were an important part of history in Orkney, and it is important to remember their contributions. They played an essential role in shaping the islands and providing stability during turbulent times. Their legacy has survived to this day, and their influence can still be seen throughout Orkney. It is clear that their contributions have been long-lasting and invaluable.
No matter how much time passes, the Knights Templar will always have a place in Orkney’s history. Their legacy will live on for generations to come, reminding us of their significance and importance to this region. The Knights Templar may no longer exist, but their legacy lives on in Orkney.
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