Knights Templar Scotland


The Knights Templar Scotland is an organization of Christian knights that dates back to the 12th century. It was formed in the wake of the First Crusade, when a group of knights from France and England came together to protect pilgrims on their journey to Jerusalem. Throughout its history, the Knights Templar Scotland has been a symbol of strength, courage and loyalty in times of great peril. Today, the organization continues to promote Christian values and upholds the principles of charity, hospitality and justice. It is also committed to supporting causes that benefit people in need around the world. The Knights Templar, also known as the Order of the Temple or the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon, was a Catholic military order established in 1118. The organisation was active in Scotland from around 1160 until its dissolution in 1312.

The Order had a strong presence in Scotland, with one of their first major establishments being Balantrodoch Castle near Edinburgh. This castle was built around 1160 and served as the headquarters for the Order in Scotland. The Templars had a number of other properties in Scotland, including lands near Dunfermline, Aberdeen, Dundee and Kilwinning.

Throughout their time in Scotland, the Templars were involved in numerous battles against enemies such as King William I and his forces. The Templars also acted as protectors for pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem and Rome. They were also responsible for providing financial aid to Scottish churches and monasteries during times of trouble.

In 1307, King Philip IV of France accused the Templars of various crimes such as heresy, blasphemy and fraud against the church. This resulted in Pope Clement V issuing an edict that dissolved all Templar properties throughout Europe, including those in Scotland. By 1312 all Templar activity had ceased in Scotland and their properties were either given to other religious orders or returned to their original owners.

What Are the Knights Templar?

The Knights Templar were a religious military order founded in 1119. They were formed to protect Christian pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem and other holy sites in the Holy Land. The order was active during the Crusades and became one of the most powerful and wealthy organizations of its time. The Templars were known for their bravery, honor, and commitment to their faith.

The Knights Templar had a strict code of conduct and followed a strict set of rules. They were organized into chapters, with each chapter led by a Grand Master. They wore white mantles with red crosses on them, symbolizing their mission to protect pilgrims on their journey to the Holy Land.

The Knights Templar also had many privileges granted to them by various kings and popes, including exemption from taxes and freedom from local laws. This allowed them to amass great wealth over time, which they used to purchase land in Europe and build large castles throughout the region.

The Templars’ power eventually came under scrutiny from both religious and political leaders, leading to accusations of heresy against them in 1307. The organization was disbanded in 1312 by Pope Clement V, who cited charges of heresy against them as his reason for doing so.

Today, the legacy of the Knights Templar lives on through popular literature, films, video games and other forms of media that focus on the knights’ adventures during the Crusades. Their impact on Western culture is still felt today as their symbols are seen everywhere from corporate logos to modern-day fraternal organizations such as Freemasonry.

The Rise of the Knights Templar in Scotland

The Knights Templar, a Catholic military order founded in 1118 A.D., was one of the most powerful and influential organizations of the Middle Ages. During the 12th and 13th centuries, the Templars expanded their influence throughout Europe, with a particular focus on Scotland. The Templars established a series of strongholds and monasteries in Scotland, including sites near Edinburgh and Stirling. In addition to these fortified locations, the organization also built churches and chapels throughout the country.

The Templars were known for their bravery and dedication to their religious beliefs, which made them popular among Scottish nobles. They were invited by local rulers to defend their lands and fight against invading forces. As a result of these alliances with local rulers, the Templars quickly became one of the most powerful military orders in Europe.

In 1189, King Alexander II granted the Templars a large tract of land near Balantrodoch in Renfrewshire, where they built their first major stronghold in Scotland. This became known as Templewood Castle, which was later expanded by King Alexander III. The castle was used as a base for military operations in Scotland as well as a place for religious ceremonies and rituals.

In addition to their military prowess, the Templars were also renowned for their banking practices. They offered loans to members of European royalty and provided safe storage for valuable items like coins and jewels. The Templars’ banking system was so successful that it inspired similar practices throughout Europe.

Although they eventually lost much of their power due to internal conflicts and political upheaval, the Knights Templar remain an important part of Scottish history today. Many of their strongholds still exist, serving as reminders of this ancient order’s influence on Scotland’s history.

How Did the Knights Templar Affect Scotland?

The Knights Templar were a powerful and influential military order of medieval Europe. During the High Middle Ages, they were active in Scotland and had a significant impact on the country. Initially, the Knights Templar acted as protectors of pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land. However, by the late 12th century, they had become a major military force in Europe.

In Scotland, the Templars established several commanderies or fortified monasteries throughout the country. They were most active in areas such as Northumberland, East Lothian and Stirlingshire. In addition to their military role, they also engaged in banking and agricultural activities, as well as providing legal services to local communities.

The Templars’ primary role in Scotland was to defend Christian pilgrims travelling to Jerusalem from attacks by Muslim forces. To this end, they built numerous castles and encampments throughout Scotland. These included Stirling Castle (built around 1130), Dunbar Castle (built around 1150) and Edinburgh Castle (built around 1160). These impressive fortifications provided a strong defence against invaders and helped protect pilgrims on their journey to Jerusalem.

The Templars also played an important role in developing Scotland’s economy. As part of their banking activities, they issued coins known as ‘Templar coins’ which were widely used throughout Scotland until the 14th century. In addition, they owned lands which were leased out for farming and other agricultural activities. This allowed them to generate income from these lands which could then be used to fund their operations in other parts of Europe.

Therefore, the Templars played an important role in Scottish society by providing legal services to local communities. The Order was granted royal charter status by King Alexander II which allowed them to act as arbitrators in legal disputes between nobles or commoners within Scotland’s borders. This meant that citizens could take disputes to court without fear of reprisal from powerful nobles or rulers who might otherwise have threatened them with physical violence or imprisonment for any perceived wrongdoings.

In summary, it is clear that the Knights Templar had a significant impact on medieval Scotland and its people during their time here. Through their defensive fortifications and banking activities they provided much-needed security for Christian pilgrims travelling to Jerusalem while also helping develop Scotland’s economy through leasing out land for farming and other agricultural activities as well as providing legal services through royal charter status granted by King Alexander II.

Impact of the Knights Templar on Scottish Politics

The Knights Templar were a prominent religious and military order active in Europe during the High Middle Ages. The order was founded in the 12th century and its members fought in many battles during the Crusades. Despite their noble aims, their presence had a significant impact on Scottish politics.

The Templars were responsible for introducing a new type of feudalism to Scotland, which allowed them to gain control of large tracts of land owned by local magnates. This gave them considerable political influence, as they were able to influence decisions regarding taxation and other matters. They also had a strong presence in local government, with some even sitting on royal councils.

The Templars’ presence caused tensions between Scotland’s two main ruling families, the Bruce and the Balliols. This resulted in several wars being fought over who would control Scotland’s territories. Eventually, Robert the Bruce emerged victorious and became King of Scotland in 1306.

The Templars also played an important role in international affairs during this period, as they served as intermediaries between Scotland and other European countries. They acted as ambassadors for the Scottish government and helped to negotiate treaties with foreign powers such as France and England. In addition, they were responsible for carrying out diplomatic missions on behalf of the Scottish Crown.

Overall, it is clear that the Knights Templar had a significant impact on Scottish politics during this period. They introduced new forms of feudalism which allowed them to gain political influence in Scotland, while also playing an important role in international diplomacy. Without their presence, it is unlikely that Robert the Bruce would have been able to achieve his ultimate victory over England and become King of Scotland.

The Decline of the Knights Templar in Scotland

The Knights Templar were a powerful and influential religious military order that was active in Scotland during the 12th and 13th centuries. Founded in Jerusalem during the Crusades, they were charged with protecting Christian pilgrims on their journey to the Holy Land. In Scotland, they became an important military force, controlling vast tracts of land and holding considerable power and influence over both secular and religious affairs. However, by the end of the 14th century, their power had declined significantly.

One of the primary reasons for the decline of the Templars in Scotland was their failure to adapt to changing political realities. The decline of European feudalism meant that large land-holding orders such as the Templars had less power and influence than they once did. Furthermore, a series of wars between England and Scotland meant that both countries were increasingly focused inwardly rather than on foreign wars such as those fought during the Crusades.

In addition to these external forces, there were also internal factors which contributed to the decline of the Templars in Scotland. The order had become increasingly involved in politics, which alienated many of its members who preferred to remain dedicated to spiritual matters. Furthermore, a series of conflicts between rival branches within Scotland caused further divisions which weakened its overall strength.

Therefore, there were changes within Christianity itself which saw an increasing focus on individual piety rather than collective action such as that undertaken by religious orders like the Templars. This shift away from collective action meant that there was less need for such orders as people increasingly sought spiritual fulfilment independently rather than through groups like the Templars.

The result was that by the end of the 14th century, the Knights Templar had lost much of their former power and influence in Scotland. Although some remnants remained until later centuries, they never regained their previous level of importance or prestige.

Temple of the Knights Templar in Edinburgh

The Temple of the Knights Templar in Edinburgh is one of the most significant sites associated with the Knights Templar in Scotland. It was built in 1160 and is today located in a small lane off the Royal Mile. The Temple was used as a meeting place for knights and also served as a religious retreat. In 1307, when King Philip IV of France ordered the arrest and dissolution of the Order, it was used as a court for their trials. Today, visitors can view the remains of this historic site, which include walls and a few remaining stone features.

Lochranza Castle

Lochranza Castle is one of Scotland’s oldest castles and has strong associations with the Knights Templar. Built around 1200, it became an important base for Scottish Templars during their fight against English forces in 1298-1304. The castle still stands today and visitors can explore its grounds and take in its stunning views over Loch Ranza.

Balantrodoch

Balantrodoch is an ancient ruin located near Duddingston Loch on the outskirts of Edinburgh. It was once an important site for Scotland’s Templars, serving as a commandery or administrative centre where knights could rest before going into battle or on other missions. The ruins are now managed by Historic Scotland and are open to visitors who wish to explore its fascinating history.

Roslin Chapel

Roslin Chapel is one of Scotland’s most iconic sites associated with the Knights Templar. Built between 1446-1486, it became an important centre for Scottish Templars who were involved in protecting pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. The chapel still stands today and visitors can admire its ornate architecture and learn more about its fascinating history through guided tours.

Dryburgh Abbey

Dryburgh Abbey is an ancient ruin located near Melrose in the Scottish Borders region. It was once home to many powerful families including those associated with the Knights Templar who used it as a resting place between missions abroad or protecting pilgrims travelling to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Today, visitors can explore its grounds and admire its beautiful architecture while learning more about this fascinating part of Scotland’s history.

The Legacy of the Knights Templar in Scotland

The legacy of the Knights Templar in Scotland is a long and storied one. From their inception in 1119, to their dissolution in 1312, the Templars left a lasting impression on the country. As one of the most influential military orders of the Middle Ages, they were instrumental in many aspects of Scottish life, from protecting pilgrims on their journeys to Jerusalem to providing military aid for Scotland’s kings in times of war. The Templars were also great contributors to Scottish culture and architecture, leaving behind a number of castles and other monuments that still stand today.

The Templars first came to Scotland in 1128 when King David I invited them to help protect his kingdom from Viking raids. The order quickly gained favor with the king and other nobles, who gave them lands and privileges throughout Scotland. By 1162, there were over 150 knights living in Scotland, making it one of the largest Templar presences outside of France and Spain. The Templars were given vast estates throughout Scotland and they used these properties to raise money for their various activities.

The Templars also played an important role in defending Scotland against England during times of war. In 1298, King Edward I invaded Scotland and was met with fierce resistance from the Templars stationed there. Despite being outnumbered by a much larger English force, the Templars were able to hold them off until reinforcements arrived from France. This battle is seen as an important victory for Scottish independence as it kept Edward from invading further north into Scotland.

Despite their eventual dissolution by papal decree in 1312, the legacy of the Knights Templar lives on in Scotland today through their many monuments and castles that still stand throughout the country. Rosslyn Chapel near Edinburgh is perhaps one of the most famous sites associated with them as it was built by William Sinclair, a descendant of two Templar knights who had fought at Bannockburn in 1314. Other notable sites include Templewood Castle near Glasgow which was built for Sir William St Clair by his brother-in-law Sir John de Mowbray following his return from fighting alongside Robert Bruce at Bannockburn.

The legacy of these brave warriors continues to be remembered today through various festivals dedicated to them such as ‘Knights Templar Day’ which is celebrated every year on June 24th; this date being chosen because it marks when Pope Clement V officially abolished their order 700 years ago. It is clear that despite centuries passing since their dissolution, the memory and impact left by these brave warriors will never be forgotten within Scottish history.

Last Thoughts

The Knights Templar Scotland were a powerful military order that left an indelible mark on the history of Scotland and the world. They were an integral part of the Crusades, and they left their mark on medieval Europe. While their legacy has been largely forgotten, their impact still remains in various places in Scotland and beyond. They embodied the power of faith, courage and dedication, which can inspire us today. Their story is one of bravery, valour and loyalty to God and country. They were a force to be reckoned with, and their memory lives on in Scotland’s history books.

The Knights Templar Scotland were a unique organization with a rich culture and history that is still remembered today. Through their contributions to Scottish society, they have left an indelible mark on our nation’s history that will never be forgotten. Their courage, dedication, and loyalty made them an admirable group of people who are still remembered with admiration even centuries later.

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1 thought on “Knights Templar Scotland”


  1. In addition to their military prowess, the Templars were also renowned for their banking practices. They offered loans to members of European royalty and provided safe storage for valuable items like coins and jewels. The Templars’ banking system was so successful that it inspired similar practices throughout Europe.

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