The concept of the military orders was a twelfth-century innovation which brought together the evolving ideals of knighthood with the discipline of regular monastic life. Where knights fought for personal profit, the military orders devoted themselves to a higher cause – initially the protection of pilgrims in the dangerous roads of Outremer, and, then by extension, the defence of the whole kingdom. With a steady supply of recruits, money and equipment from western Europe and hard-won experience of fighting the forces of Islam and campaigning in the harsh climate of the Middle East, the Templars and Hospitallers soon found themselves playing a critical role in the armies of the crusader states.

28mm figures. Pack contains four different figures. 25mm round bases included. Made from white metal, supplied unpainted and may need some assembly.