A military order that began circa 1129, the Knights Templar remained active until the first part of the fourteenth century.
Templar knights wore pristine white mantles that sported a bright red cross. Known for military prowess, these highly skilled fighting units reached prominence during the Crusades.
A major financial institution, the Knights Templar managed a large economic infrastructure throughout Europe.
At dawn on Friday, Oct. 13, 1307 (possibly the origin the Friday the thirteenth superstition), French King Philip IV ordered the arrest and execution of the Knights Templar Grand Master Jacque de Molay and scores of other leading knights.
Jacque de Molay was burned in the year 1314. The order went underground after this. French and Scottish Rite Masonry took on some of the ritual but this isn't always seen as solid information.
There seemed a fantastic connection to the Pope (Templars). How did they come to have such favor with the Roman Church? Clairvaux was the connection and favor with Baldwin ll. The church encouraged Pilgrimages and so it was necessary to protect the Pilgrims.
Molay was sentenced to death together with Geoffroi de Charney in 1314 as a direct result of cardinal legates' decisions and actions rather than being ordered by King Philip the fair. He was burnt at the stake on the Ile des Javiaux in the Seine. Wikipedia
Images @ Eminpee Fotography
Postscript.. I was married to a man with surname Baldwin. His family goes back to this Royal French Baldwins. We named our daughter Matilda as did the original Baldwin / Bourdin.
Postscript.. I was married to a man with surname Baldwin. His family goes back to this Royal French Baldwins. We named our daughter Matilda as did the original Baldwin / Bourdin.
