The Order of the Temple was founded in 1118, to ensure the custody of the Holy Places, and protect the pilgrimage routes. The Order reached its maximum splendor in the 13th century.
The Knights Templar considered themselves Knights of God, honor of the Church and Christianity.
His motto, both to enter into combat and to initiate any action to help others, was: NON NOBIS, DOMINE, NON NOBIS, SED TUO NOMINI DA GLORIAM. "Give glory, not for us, sir, not for us, but for your name."
It was a very well organized military force and they formed the shock troops in all the Crusades. In the attack they were in the vanguard and in the withdrawals, in the rear. For a century they ensured the effective rule of the Latin Kingdom of Constantinople. They paid no taxes, tribute or tolls, they only obeyed the Pope and had possessions throughout Europe and the Middle East.