ABSTRACT
The conflict between Christendom and its Islamic and non-Christian neighbors that emerged in the eleventh century gave rise to a new form of religious life: the Military Order whose members combined monastic life with active military service. To support their activities in the Middle East, the various orders were granted properties and privileges throughout Europe. The principal orders were the Knights of the Temple of Solomon (Templars) and the Knights of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem (Hospitalers) both of which possessed extensive estates in Ireland. The Knights of St. Thomas of Acre also had Irish possessions.
