Category: Religion

Built by the Knights Templar in the 12th century, Temple Church is one of the finest, most captivating buildings in all of London.

The Knights Templar—those knights who pop up in Ivanhoe, The Da Vinci Code, Assassin’s Creed, the Blind Dead movies—not to mention a swarm of myths and conspiracy theories–were an order of warrior monks whose mission was to guard people on pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

They first arrived in England in 1128, during the reign of Henry I. They settled in Holborn initially, but in 1160 bought a large tract of land between Fleet Street and the river. There, they built a monastery, dorms, a rectory, a military training ground . . . and a church. It was the Templar home in England until their order was abolished in 1312.

After the Templars were suppressed, their land was given to another order, the Knights Hospitaller of St. John, who leased the land out to lawyers. When Henry VIII dissolved the monasteries, the Crown claimed the property but continued to lease it to lawyers. The lawyers are still there—Temple remains a compound of attorney’s offices, libraries, meeting halls, and so on, and it features some striking and pretty awe-inspiring structures.

The church is free to enter, and it’s definitely a worthwhile stop on any walkabout in London. It’s open most days in the mornings and early afternoons. Don’t miss it.

FYI: Temple Church is famous for its free musical events, which you can view on the Temple Church YouTube channel.

Music “Sarabande” by Joel Cummins;”Ceremonial Library” by Asher Fulero; “Wandering Soul” by Asher Fulero