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Medieval history and the Crusades |
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Medieval History and the Crusades In those stirring days when the Medieval Dark Age gave way to the bright light of the Renaissance, the full flower of knighthood and a new way of life began to emerge. The Crusades turned the bickering European battles of kings against kings into a reasonably united effort to win back the Holy Land.
The Knights Templar came into being on the site of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem to protect the Christian pilgrims in that land. These noble deeds were rewarded by generous gifts of land from the kings and lords of Europe to enable the work to continue. And somehow the Templars managed to transform that modest wealth to create a banking system that gave them true wealth. When the Templars were struck down in 1307 the glory days of knighthood began to fade, and 150 years later armor-clad knights were no longer a force in battle.
Yet some of the things that began during the Crusading Templar days continued to grow in Europe, and by the 1600s the seeds of renaissance were well planted. The arts and sciences began to flourish, Shakespearean plays came into vogue, and the colorful customs and clothing of the times created a unique atmosphere that still lingers today. The Renaissance Faires and Festivals still commemorate those gallant and bawdy days. It seemed to be a time when men were men and women were women, and oft the two did meet.
photo by Jenny Graham Some of the outstanding books that have explored these vibrant Medieval and Renaissance societies are described in rich detail in Medieval books. © 2012-2024 Sir Knight Sanford |
All the information you need on Renaissance Faires and Festivals across the USA and around the world can be found here, along with links to get you wherever you want to go. Renaissance Faire and Festival Information. Got a Faire or Festival photo of your own? Share it and raise everyone's jealousy factor with your great costume, fun times, or magic moment you captured. If you don't want to show your real name with the image, make up a good Medieval one and send it off.
Renaissance Festival The Knights Templar Some of the most fascinating people and events of the Middle Ages were involved with the Knights Templar. The book Sworn in Secret now tells their intriguing story in richer detail than you have ever seen before.
Society for Creative Anachronism This society is active all year around with costumed Medieval events that include feasts, revelry and tournements. These "kingdoms" cover the whole world, so wherever you live there are events near you. And you don't need to be a member to go to events. See more about the society here. Renaissance Magazine |
