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 In the history of Portugal the Knights of Christ played a great role, particularly at the expulsion of the Moors. The Knights Templar (the predecessor of the Knights of Christ) was founded about 1120 to protect the Jerusalem pilgrims. The Templars supported Portugal at the fight against the Moors in the 12th and 13th century. In return they got estates and received political powers. They also got the Moor's castle in Tomar. Since this was located at a strategically unfavourable place, the Templars built the Convento de Cristo in a new place. And they were right because the castle has never been captured. Due to their military successes and their gifts, the Templars became rich and powerful. In 1312, pope Clemens V. forbid the latest and retracted their possession. Six years later, King Dinis founded the "Ordem de Cavalaria de Nossa Senhor Jesu Cristo", the Order of Christ, who also took all property and privileges.
One of his tasks was the reconquest of lands which were still occupied by the Moors. Henry the Navigator and king Manuel I were the Grand Masters among others. The Order of Christ also played an important part in the expeditions of Portugal. In 1523 Joào III. changed the Order of Christ into monk knights. The Order lost its property in 1834 and was dissolved 1910 with the end of the monarchy.
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