- This edition is unique;<br />- The translation is completely original and was carried out for the Ale. Mar. SAS;<br />- All rights reserved.<br /><br />The Knights Templars by Charles G. Addison was first published in 1852. It is a comprehensive view of the Templars, a Catholic military order founded in 1118. Addison explores the origins of the order, information on Hugh de Payens, the Crusades, the Temples of London, the riches they acquired and their eventual downfall. With their distinctive white cloaks with a red cross, the Templars became one of the wealthiest groups in 12th and 13th century Europe. In fact, it was their wealth that caused them to be disbanded in 1312 after King Philip IV of France pressured Pope Clement V because he was so indebted to them. Taking advantage of rumours of secret initiation ceremonies and a growing distrust of the order, the king saw a way to destroy them and cancel his debt.