For 200 years the Knights Templar held sway over an area ranging from Britain to Jerusalem—until their influence began to threaten France’s Phillip IV and the papacy itself. Destroyed by Phillip in 1314, the order disappeared into history, but they left a rich and varied legacy throughout the British Isles, from London’s Temple Church and the Great Wilbraham Perceptory to Lundy Island. More than 180 color and black and white photographs help tell the story of every significant British site of Templar activity, backed by authoritative text that reveals the history and notable architectural details of each. Addresses, directions, and even visiting hours for official or protected sites are also provided.
Simon Brighton was brought up in Lincolnshire, in the shadow of Temple Bruer, one of the most important Templar sites in the country. He became fascinated by the Knights at an early age and has pursued that fascination ever since. His photography of Templar sites has become well known - some of his images of London's Temple Church were included in the illustrated edition of THE DA VINCI CODE. When not documenting the Templars he is a psychiatric nurse, with an MSc in forensic psychiatry.