The Templar Cross is one of the most iconic symbols of the Middle Ages, representing the Order of the Knights Templar—a religious and military order that played a crucial role in the Crusades. The members of this order, known as "Templars," proudly bore this cross, which became synonymous with their legacy.
If you're curious about the history and significance of the Templar Cross, you've come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore five key facts about the Templar Cross that will deepen your understanding of this powerful symbol.
1. What Is the Templar Cross's Real Name?
Interestingly, the cross most commonly associated with the Templars is officially known as the "Vermilion Cross" or the "Cross of Gules" (croix de gueules). It was introduced in 1147, 18 years after the Templar Order was founded on January 13, 1129. Over time, this cross became the emblem of the order, eventually being referred to simply as the Templar Cross or "cross of the temple militia."
2. Why Do the Knights Templar Have Different Crosses?
The Templar Cross wasn’t the first or only cross associated with the order. Before the Vermilion Cross became their symbol, the Knights Templar used various other crosses. The Vermilion Cross, granted to the Templars by Pope Eugene III in 1147, was worn on the left shoulder, close to the heart. This red cross signified their perpetual commitment to the Crusades, even though not all Templars participated in these campaigns.
3. Why Is the Templar Cross Red?
The red color of the Templar Cross wasn’t chosen at random. It was meant to symbolize the blood of Christ, highlighting the Templars' unwavering devotion to Christianity. Every detail of the cross was carefully considered to reflect their faith and purpose.
4. The Geometry of the Templar Cross Is Controversial
The exact shape of the Templar Cross is a topic of debate among historians and scholars. Is it a pattée cross, with arms that flare out, or an indented cross? The answer remains unclear, and as a result, Templar crosses in different churches may not look the same. This variation also arises because different orders, such as the Teutonic Order, the Order of Malta, and the Order of the Holy Sepulcher, each have their unique crosses.
5. The Cross of Gules May Have Different Origins
It’s possible that the Templar Cross originated from the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, to which Hugues de Payns, the founder of the Templars, and his comrades may have belonged. The cross officially became a Templar symbol under Robert de Craon, the second master of the order.
After reading this article, you now have a deeper understanding of the Templar Cross, a symbol that played a significant role in shaping the history of the Middle Ages. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious, the story of the Templar Cross is a fascinating glimpse into the world of the Knights Templar.
1 comment
I was in Israel at an archeological site called Beit She’an. It is there that I saw a painted cross on a wall. I think it might be a templar’s cross. There was an X in the center of the cross and a few tiny petals at the ends of each of the 4 cross pieces. The cross is a reddish brown. What do you think?