ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base
Teutonic Order
Teutonic Order
History
The Teutonic Order, also known as the Order of the Brothers of the House of Santa Maria in Jerusalem, was founded in 1198 as a military order. Initially, it operated as a hostel, hospital, and prayer house for German-speaking pilgrims who joined the Crusades in Israel. The Order's official name is "The Order on the Name of the Saint Mary of Totons in Jerusalem" (in Latin: Ordo Domus Sanctae Mariæ Theutonicorum Hierosolymitanorum).
Origins
The Teutonic Order was established as a military order, with its ideology influenced by that of the Templars, which was formulated around 1128. Its early activities were concentrated in two locations: one center in the territory of the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem and another focus in the colonies of the Order in Northern Europe, Germany, and the Baltic countries.
Structure and Activities
The Teutonic Order's work was initially focused on military activities during the Crusades. However, after the loss of Acre in 1291, its main theatre of operations shifted towards charitable purposes. Today, the Order works mainly for charitable purposes in Central Europe.
Symbolism and Dress
The unique dress item of the Teutonic Knights was white, with a black cross as their symbol.
Official Names
The official denominations of the Teutonic Order include:
* Domus Hospitalis Sancte Marie Theutonicorum Hierosolymitani (Home of the German hospital of Sainte-Marie-de-Jérusalem)
* Ordo Domus Sanctæ Mariæ Teutonicorum (Order of the house of St.Marie-des-Teutonics)
* Deutscher Orden (German Order)
Name Variations
The Order is also known as:
* The Teutonic Knights
* Der Deutsche Ritterorden (The German Knightly Order)
* Ordo Teutonicus (Teutonic Order in Latin)
* Orden der Brüder vom Deutschen Haus 111 Mariens in Jerusalem (Order of the Brothers of the German House of St. Mary in Jerusalem)
Legacy
The Teutonic Order has a rich history, with its origins dating back to the Crusades. Its legacy continues to be felt in Central Europe, where it operates mainly for charitable purposes today.