The Templar Cross is a red cross pattée, with arms flaring outward from a narrow center. Officially granted by Pope Eugenius III in 1147 through the papal bull Militia Dei, it became the emblem of the Knights Templar, the elite warrior monks who defended pilgrims and fought in the Crusades (1096–1291). The cross’s expanding arms symbolized both the growth of the Christian faith and the protection of the Church, setting it apart from other crusader crosses like the Maltese Cross.
Origins and Papal Approval
The Knights Templar were founded in 1119 by Hugh de Payens and Godfrey de Saint-Omer and gained formal recognition at the Council of Troyes (1129). The red color of the cross represented the blood of Christ and the knights’ readiness for martyrdom (Nicholson, 2001). Sewn on the left shoulder of their white mantles, the cross was a visual declaration of purity and devotion (Demurger, 2008). It also functioned as a badge of authority, granting them credibility as protectors sanctioned by the Church.
The Templar Cross in the Crusades
Battlefield Emblem
On the battlefield, the Templar Cross was more than decoration—it was a rallying point. Seen at Ascalon (1153) and the Third Crusade, it guided soldiers in the chaos of war (William of Tyre). The Beauséant banner—black-and-white with the red cross—symbolized moral struggle: white for purity, black for the ferocity shown to enemies.
Symbol of Martyrdom
Its crimson hue echoed Matthew 16:24 and Revelation 12:11, reminding knights they had accepted the possibility of dying for their faith. This symbolism reinforced morale, framing death in battle as a spiritual victory.
Variations of the Templar Cross
While the pattée shape was standard, artistic and regional differences emerged. Some versions had straight arms, others were flared or ornate. Local commanderies sometimes modified the cross to reflect cultural styles—Mediterranean examples often incorporated gold or elaborate borders, while northern European variants tended toward simplicity. Grand Masters occasionally introduced stylistic tweaks, marking their tenure in office.
Crosses in the Medieval Military Orders
The Templar Cross influenced or coexisted with other notable designs:
- Jerusalem Cross – Symbol of the Kingdom of Jerusalem.
- Maltese Cross – Hospitallers’ emblem, tied to the Beatitudes.
- Cross of Saint John and Saint James – Used in Spanish chivalric orders.
- Teutonic Cross – Associated with campaigns in Poland and Germany. The prevalence of cross designs in medieval heraldry underscored their role as both spiritual and martial insignia.
The Templar Cross in Esoteric and Masonic Traditions
From the 18th century, Freemasonry adopted the pattée for Templar-themed degrees. The cross became central to myths linking Masons to the medieval order, blending Enlightenment romanticism with Rosicrucian mystique. In the 19th century, occult writers claimed it encoded secret knowledge or mystical geometry. While no medieval source supports these claims, the imagery remains popular in esoteric circles.
The Cross in Templar Rituals and Ceremonies
The Rule of the Templars records that during investiture ceremonies, initiates were clothed with mantles bearing the cross, accompanied by solemn oaths. Archaeological evidence of gravestones across France, Portugal, and the Holy Land shows the pattée carved as a sign of eternal service. In liturgical contexts, the cross may have been kissed or blessed, further sacralizing its presence.
The Cross in Templar Architecture
Templar churches and fortresses incorporated the cross in strategic places—above entrances, on keystones, and in wall frescoes. The Temple Church in London displays it in stained glass, while the Convento de Cristo in Tomar, Portugal integrates it into the very stonework. Its placement often reinforced the sacred authority of the building.
Artistic Depictions in Medieval and Renaissance Art
In the Maciejowski Bible, Templars appear in full battle gear with the pattée on shields and surcoats. The frescoes in Cressac Chapel depict processions of knights, their crosses painted in vivid red. Illuminated manuscripts often used gold leaf on the cross, underscoring its divine association.
Influence on European Heraldry
The pattée form influenced later awards and insignia such as the Iron Cross, Victoria Cross, and Order of Merit. In Monza Cathedral, it appears alongside Hospitaller and Teutonic crosses, revealing the interconnected symbolism of Europe’s military-religious orders.
Archaeological Evidence
Excavations at Tomar, Portugal, have revealed carved crosses, altar engravings, and ship timbers marked with the pattée (Seward, 1995). Templar seals bearing the cross conveyed trust within their banking network, signaling a reliable institution to merchants and monarchs (Martin, 2005).
Modern Uses and Misappropriation
Today, the pattée remains visible in Catholic organizations like the Knights of Columbus. It is also found in rings, pendants, and tattoos, often symbolizing faith or chivalric ideals. Unfortunately, extremist groups have misused the cross, stripping it of its intended meaning (Morton, 2018).
