Knights Templar Costume

Few medieval figures have generated as much mystery as the Knights Templar. Founded in the early twelfth century, the military order began by protecting Christian pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land and grew into a powerful international organisation of soldiers, landowners and administrators.

Their familiar white mantles marked with a red cross make them particularly recognisable, which also makes a Templar costume surprisingly straightforward. Add a tunic, cloak, belt and boots and you've got the essential look.

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Ready to join the order? We've picked out Knights Templar costumes ranging from simple medieval tunics and cloaks to more detailed crusader-inspired outfits.

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Get into character: Bring the Knights Templar to Life

Straighten your cloak, adopt a serious expression and look as though you've got somewhere important to be.

A few things to know

The Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ, better known as the Knights Templar, were a religious military order associated with the Crusades. They followed a strict religious rule and combined monastic life with military duties.

The order was dissolved in the early fourteenth century after its members were arrested and accused of various crimes. Many of the more extravagant stories about hidden treasure, secret societies and mysterious survival belong to later legend rather than established history.

Playing the part

The Templar isn't really a character who needs much acting. Stand tall, speak solemnly and behave as though every corridor is the entrance to Jerusalem.

For a party, you could spend the evening looking suspiciously at everyone's treasure. If somebody asks what you're guarding, simply say, "It's classified."

Finishing touches that elevate the look

The key elements are white fabric, a red cross, a cloak and a sturdy belt. Keep the overall shape simple and practical rather than making it look like a superhero costume.

A wooden sword or shield can complete the look for a fancy-dress event. Just remember that your most important accessory is the Templar's characteristic air of absolute seriousness.

Image credit: License CC BY-SA 2.0 Some rights reserved by Contando Estrelas