You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly. You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.
alternatehistory.com
What if apart from their other activities the Knights Templar saw part of their mission as not only the protection of the pilgrims but also the protection of God's representative on Earth in the Pontiff.
How does this effect the history of Europe and the rest of the world with the Templars being considered the right hand of the Pope?
What does the Pope do now that he doesn't necessarily have to rely on the good will of the European royal houses to maintain his claim to being the head of the Roman church?