Temple Church

Temple Church, located in the heart of London, is a historic and architecturally significant church with deep connections to the mysterious and legendary Knights Templar. Built between 1185 and 1225, Temple Church was their headquarters in England and has retained its evocative medieval charm. The Knights Templar were warrior monks, defending Christian pilgrims and territories during the Crusades. They were founded in 1119, and amassed enormous wealth across Europe. Their legendary, almost mystical power sparked rumours of hidden treasures, secret rituals, and sacred relics like the Holy Grail. Dissolved under mysterious accusations in 1312, their legacy continues to fascinate and inspire. Temple church is divided into two parts: the Round Church and the Chancel. The Round Church, a striking example of Norman architecture, is modelled after the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, reflecting the Templars’ mission to protect Christian holy sites. Its distinctive round shape, with a central dome and a circular plan, was intended to symbolise the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and highlight the Templars’ connection to the Holy Land. Following the dissolution of the Knights Templar in the early 14th century, the church became the property of the Knights Hospitaller. In the 16th century, it was handed over to the Inner Temple and Middle Temple, two of London’s four ancient Inns of Court, where it still serves as a place of worship for legal professionals. Today, the Knights Templar are remembered not just for their role in medieval history, but also for the enduring mystery that surrounds their sudden downfall. Their legacy continues to inspire books, films, and countless theories about their hidden purpose and lost treasures. Temple Church played an integral part in the book the Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown, and it was also featured extensively in the blockbuster Hollywood movie of the same name. Temple Church is renowned for its historical and architectural significance. Its medieval tombs and effigies, including those of Templar knights, are notable features. The church houses the graves of several important figures, including William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, a revered statesman and knight. These gravestones are adorned with elaborate carvings and provide a glimpse into the lives and legacies of medieval nobility. Temple Church offers a unique opportunity to explore a part of England’s medieval history, in a quiet corner of the bustling, modern city of London.