The Temple church in London is all that remains of the English headquarters of the Knights Templar. The church is notable for its circular shape, inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, and features a collection of medieval effigies.
Founded in 1118 by the Knights Templar, an order of crusading monks, the church was consecrated in 1185. It was built to be the order’s headquarters in England and is a significant example of their architectural style.
The chancel area, with its beautiful purbeck marble columns (post-war replacements), adds to the architectural richness. Stained glass windows, including one depicting crusading knights, illuminate the interior. Carved heads in the spandrels around the round tower add to the visual interest. The baptismal font is a significant part of the church’s interior.
DISCOVER MORE: Did most people think the Knights Templar were guilty?
The church was founded after Hugues de Payens traveled to England to raise support for the Crusades by seeking donations and recruits. The Temple area, and the Temple Church itself, continue to bear the name and legacy of the Knights Templar, with the church being a prominent feature in the heart of London.
The Templars were not always based in exactly that part of London. They moved closer to the river later in the 12th century – probably to take advantage of the river current to power their water mills. The rest of the Templar buildings disappeared a long time ago. But Temple church is a great survivor!
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