기사단, or the "Knights Templar," was a medieval Christian military order founded in the early 12th century. Their primary mission was to protect pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land during the Crusades. The order became known for its distinctive white mantles adorned with a red cross and gained significant wealth and power over time. The Knights Templar established a network of fortifications and banking systems across Europe and the Middle East. They played a crucial role in the Crusades, participating in many battles. However, by the early 14th century, the order faced persecution, leading to its dissolution by Pope Clement V in 1312.