Includes bibliographical references and index.

Part I. Pilgrims, 1102-1144 -- A golden basin filled with scorpions -- The defense of Jerusalem -- A new knighthood -- Every good gift -- Part II. Soldiers, 1144-1187 -- A tournament between Heaven and Hell -- The mill of war -- The godforsaken tower -- Power and riches -- Troubles in the two lands -- Tears of fire -- Woe to you, Jerusalem! -- Part III. Bankers, 1189-1260 -- The pursuit of fortune -- Nowhere in poverty -- Damietta! -- Animosity and hatred -- Unfurl and raise our banner! -- Part IV. Heretics, 1260-1314 -- A lump in the throat -- The city will fall -- At the Devil's prompting -- Heretical depravity -- God will avenge our death -- Epilogue: the holy grail.

A narrative history of the Knights Templar draws on extensive original sources to separate fact from myth, exploring their actual work and influence, the reasons they fell out of favor, and whether or not they were guilty of heresy.