The Red Cross Shield

The Red Cross shield, featuring a red cross on a white background, is closely linked with the Knights Templar and the Hospitallers (Knights of St. John). Emerging prominently in the 12th century, this symbol gained significance during the First Crusade (1096-1099). Adopted by the Templars around 1119 and later by the Hospitallers, the red cross represented their Christian mission, defense of pilgrims, and chivalric devotion throughout medieval Europe.