The Knights Templar costumes of 1119 are among the most recognizable medieval outfits in history. Known for their striking white mantles emblazoned with the red cross, these garments symbolized their religious devotion and military purpose. Beyond symbolism, their costumes included practical armor and helmets designed for the rigors of crusading warfare. Understanding the details of Templar attire helps bring to life the image of these legendary warrior monks.
Support of the Church
They were not initially classed as an official organization but that came later in the year 1139 when they were granted official status by the Roman Catholic Church in the form of a ‘Papal Bull’ which was an official declaration by the Pope of the time.
After being effectively endorsed by the Church The Templars started to be well supported and became a favored charity among people of the Christian faith, from this point their rise in power and wealth rapidly accelerated as did their membership within Christendom.
Knights Templars Costumes
Templar knights would wear the distinctive white surcoat emblazoned with the ‘red cross’, the surcoat was worn as the outermost garment, usually outdoors.
A white mantle also with a red cross was also worn by the Templars, this is a loose garment usually worn over indoor clothing.
Sergeants Costumes
There were different ranks within the Templar organization and Sergeants were distinguished by the black tunic they wore emblazoned with a red cross on the front – They also wore a brown or black mantle.
Council of Troyes in 1129
At the Council of Troyes in 1129 the Templars are described as wearing a ‘white mantle a loose sleeveless cloak or shawl’.
When was the Cross added to Knights Templar Clothing?
The red cross of the Templar knight is closely associated with their identity as religious crusaders, it is believed that the Cross was added around the start of the 2nd Crusades at a meeting of leaders at the French headquarters in Paris around the year 1147.
Did You Know?
The red cross on the Templars’ Surcoats and mantles was a symbol of martyrdom *Templar knights fought to the death and without fear!
Rules imposed on Templar Knights by the Grand Masters forced them to wear their white mantle clothing at all times, they could not drink or even eat without wearing it.
