Order of Montesa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Order of MontesaOrden de Montesa |
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The order emblem, a Greek Cross within the Cross of Calatrava
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| Type | Religious Order of Honour and formerly a military order |
| Country | Spain |
| Royal house | House of Bourbon-Spain |
| Religious affiliation | Catholic |
| Sovereign | King Felipe VI |
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| Equivalent | Order of Santiago Order of Calatrava Order of Alcántara |
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The Order of Montesa was a special group of Christian knights. It was a military order that protected the lands of the old Crown of Aragon. This area is now part of Spain. The order got its name from the castle of Montesa, which was its main base.
Contents
The Knights Templar Connection
Templars in Aragon
The Knights Templar were a famous group of warrior monks. They were very popular in the Crown of Aragon when they started in 1119. King Alfonso I of Aragon wanted to give his lands to the Templars and other knightly orders. However, his people did not agree with this plan in 1131.
The Templars' End
Even though the Templars in Aragon were found innocent, their order was shut down. This happened in 1312 because Pope Clement V ordered it. King James II of Aragon tried to stop this, but he could not.
Starting a New Order
Forming the Order of Montesa
King James II of Aragon wanted to keep the Templars' lands safe. He asked Pope John XXII for permission to create a new military order. This new order would be similar to the Templars. Its main job was to defend the border against the Moors and pirates.
The Order's Purpose
The new order was dedicated to Our Lady. Its main base was at Montesa castle. Pope John XXII approved the order on June 10, 1317. He also gave them the rules of the Cistercian monks.
Joining Forces
The Order of Montesa was closely linked to the Order of Calatrava. Many of its first members came from the Calatrava Order. This meant the new order depended on the older Calatrava Order for support.
Leaders of the Order
The first leader, called a grand master, was Guillermo d'Eril. There were fourteen grand masters in total. Later, in 1485, Philip of Viana became the grand master. He died fighting in 1488. In 1587, King Philip II took control of the order. From then on, the King of Spain was also the grand master.
See also
In Spanish: Orden de Montesa para niños
