Deaths on January 13

Robert de Craon, second Grand Master of the Knights Templar

Robert de Craon, also known as Robert Burgundio, served as the pivotal second Grand Master of the Knights Templar, holding this esteemed position from June 1136 until his death on January 13, 1149. His tenure marked a period of crucial development and consolidation for the nascent military order, laying the groundwork for its future prominence and power across medieval Europe and the Levant.

Upon succeeding the Order's founder, Hugues de Payens, Robert de Craon inherited a brotherhood that, while growing, still lacked definitive legal and ecclesiastical independence. His most significant achievement was undoubtedly securing a formal papal sanction for the Templar Order. Through astute negotiation and advocacy, Robert successfully lobbied Pope Innocent II, leading to the issuance of the Papal Bull Omne Datum Optimum on March 29, 1139. This landmark decree granted the Knights Templar extraordinary privileges, fundamentally shaping their identity and operational capabilities.

Key Privileges Granted by Omne Datum Optimum:

• Direct Papal Subordination: The Order was placed directly under the authority of the Holy See, effectively making it answerable only to the Pope. This crucial distinction exempted the Templars from the traditional jurisdiction of local bishops and secular lords, granting them unparalleled autonomy.
• Financial Independence: The Bull permitted the Templars to collect tithes and alms, and to retain these revenues for their own use, primarily funding their military and charitable activities. This independent financial base was vital for their expansion and logistical support.
• Ecclesiastical Autonomy: The Order gained the right to build its own churches or oratories, and to appoint its own chaplains and clerks. This ensured that the Templars could conduct their religious services and rites without interference from external ecclesiastical authorities.
• Unique Identity: It formally recognized the distinctive white mantle, adorned with a red cross, as the official habit of the Order, symbolizing their dual commitment to monastic life and military service.

This unprecedented independence was instrumental in allowing the Templars to operate with remarkable efficiency and freedom. It enabled them to expand their network of preceptories, recruit more members, and manage their vast resources without the constant need for approval from local magnates or bishops, thereby bolstering their role as the primary defenders of pilgrims and the Latin Christian states in the Holy Land.

Beyond securing papal protection, Robert de Craon was also instrumental in orchestrating the Order's strategic expansion into the Iberian Peninsula. Recognizing the vital struggle of the Reconquista against Moorish rule, he negotiated significant acquisitions of castles, lands, and rights from various Christian kingdoms, including Aragon, Portugal, and Leon. These territorial gains were often granted in exchange for military service and provided the Templars with new bases of operation, recruitment grounds, and sources of income. Notable engagements and land grants occurred, for instance, following the will of King Alfonso I of Aragon, which, though disputed, ultimately led to significant Templar holdings in the region, strengthening their presence in critical frontier zones.

Robert de Craon's leadership provided the foundational legal and territorial framework for the Knights Templar's rise to prominence. He successfully transformed a fledgling organization into a powerful, self-governing entity with an enduring legacy that spanned centuries. He passed away on January 13, 1149, and was succeeded by Everard des Barres as the third Grand Master.

Frequently Asked Questions About Robert de Craon and the Knights Templar

When did Robert de Craon become Grand Master?

Robert de Craon assumed the leadership as the second Grand Master of the Knights Templar in June 1136.

What was Robert de Craon's most significant achievement?

His most significant achievement was obtaining the Papal Bull Omne Datum Optimum from Pope Innocent II in 1139. This bull granted the Templars crucial autonomy and privileges, making them largely independent of local ecclesiastical and secular authorities.

What specific privileges did Omne Datum Optimum grant the Templars?

The Bull granted them direct papal protection, exemption from tithes, the right to build their own churches, appoint their own chaplains, and freely collect alms. These privileges were vital for their operational independence and growth.

How did Robert de Craon contribute to the Templars' expansion?

He facilitated the Order's expansion into the Iberian Peninsula, negotiating the acquisition of important castles and territories in kingdoms like Aragon and Portugal. This strengthened their presence in the ongoing Reconquista and provided new resources.

When did Robert de Craon die and who succeeded him?

Robert de Craon died on January 13, 1149, and was succeeded by Everard des Barres as the third Grand Master of the Knights Templar.