Rise of the Knights Templar

The Knights Templar are surrounded by legends and conspiracy theories.  Who were they actually? This episode tracks the Templars from their inception as an order of warrior monks in the Crusader state of Jerusalem, to their astonishing expansion into an international organisation of enormous wealth and power.  Along the way we encounter Crusader kings, Bernard of Clairveaux, the white slave trade, the Knights Hospitaller, and the Assassins. 

Footnote: In this episode I mention Krak de Chevalier among the Templar castles because it is perhaps the most stunning example of Crusader fortresses. However, unlike the other castles I have mentioned by name, Krak de Chevalier was used by the Hospitaller Knights, a brother order to the Templars.
You can support this podcast on Patreon: www.patreon.com/evaschubert
It is also available as streaming audio on all major platforms including:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1M358EVcid9x6WilD7HNjV
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/villains-and-virgins-history-podcast/id1517874816
LibSyn: https://villainsandvirgins.libsyn.com/