the knights templar

[LadyAnn]

I wouldn't give the Papal State control of Templar Knights, if you read their history.

Anniep
elaborate:
- the Knight Order was found in 12th century after the 1st Crusade to protect Christian pilgrims between the port of Jaffa and Jerusalem.
- The region of operation of the Order was around Jerusalem, although they have headquarters in islands of the Mediterranean. Although they recruit throughout Europe and have many centers there, they don't assemble into an army to fight in Western Europe.
- The Knights were executed by the order of the Pope in 14th century. The Pope never had control of the Knights, although they enjoy papal exemption (answer only to the Church, not loyal to any king). In fact, they grew in popularity and power that the Church (and King Philip the Fair of France) feared.