About this book
The Templars tells the history of the military order founded in Jerusalem in the early twelfth century to protect Christian pilgrims. Over the following two centuries the Templars grew into a powerful international organisation, fighting in the crusades, owning land across Europe and handling money for popes and monarchs.
Dan Jones follows them from those modest beginnings to their sudden fall, when King Philip IV of France had the order's members arrested in 1307 on charges of heresy and the papacy later dissolved it. He separates the documented history from the conspiracy theories that have attached themselves to the Templars ever since, while still giving full credit to the genuine drama of their remarkable story.
The result is a fast-moving narrative that doubles as a history of the crusades seen through one institution. For a fuller account of the wars themselves, from both Christian and Muslim perspectives, read The Crusades by Thomas Asbridge.
Who it’s for
Great for readers curious about the Templars and the crusades; accessible and quick to read.
Editions vary by publisher and format. Check the retailer’s listing for the edition, translation and format before you buy.