About the Order of Malta: The influence and importance of the Order of Malta
Historical background
The Order of Malta was founded in Jerusalem in the early 11th century, when the safety of Catholics making pilgrimages to Jerusalem was threatened. So, some European nobles and knights decided to form an organization to protect the pilgrims. The organization was originally known as the "Knights Hospitaller" because their primary duty was to care for patients in a hospital near Jerusalem.
Over time, the organization became increasingly organized and militarized, expanding its scope of responsibility. They began protecting Christian pilgrims not only in Jerusalem but throughout the Middle East. The membership of the Order was not limited to the nobility, but also included people from different classes.
When they were driven out of Jerusalem, Malta became the new headquarters of the Order. There, they continued to protect the Christians, but also participated in many wars and conflicts, including against the Turks and Barbary pirates. In these conflicts, the Order won many victories and gained many accolades and patronage in Europe. These successes made the Order of Malta a secular organization and played an important role in European political and military affairs.
In the early 17th century, the Order resisted the Ottoman invasion and excelled in this war. However, in the early 19th century, they lost their influence in European politics. In the mid-19th century, Malta became a British colony, and the British government tried to weaken the influence of the Knights of Malta.
Nevertheless, the Order of Malta still plays an important role in European history. Their history and traditions continue to this day, and members of the Order continue to play a charitable and humanitarian role around the world.
Organizational structure
The Knights of Malta are very well organized, headed by an archbishop and several high officials. These officials include the Grand Master, Deputy Master General, official officials, knights, priests, and volunteers. Membership in the Order requires a series of tests and checks, including family lineage, property, character and loyalty. Eventually, only members who pass the vetting become official members of the Order.
In terms of internal management, the Order of Malta adopts a strict set of rules and regulations to manage its members. Their code of conduct, attire, rituals, etc. are clearly defined and must be observed. On a day-to-day basis, the Order also has an official department responsible for disciplinary issues and other matters within the organization.
The high discipline and organizational structure of the Order of Malta is one of the reasons why they play an important role in European political and military affairs. For example, during the Crusades, the members of the Knights of Malta, under strict organization and discipline, performed well and won many victories. They also participated in many wars and conflicts, including against countries such as France and Britain. In these wars, the high discipline and organizational structure of the Knights of Malta allowed them to succeed in the wars.
Religious influences
As a Catholic knightly organization, the contribution of the Order of Malta to the influence of European religions cannot be ignored. The members of this organization regard themselves as defenders of the Christian faith, and have participated in many wars to protect the Christian faith in European history, which has played an important role in the inheritance and protection of European Christian culture.
The most famous of these was the Battle of Malta in 1565. In this battle, the Ottoman army attempted to conquer the island of Malta, but the members of the Knights of Malta used their military and tactical skills to successfully resist the Ottoman attack. The victory in this battle was seen as a victory for Christendom over Islamists and also laid the foundation for the prestige of the Knights of Malta in Europe.
In addition, the Order of Malta has participated in numerous wars against Islamists, including against the Ottoman Empire and North African pirates. These wars not only played an important role in Europe's religious influence, but also helped to protect Europe's maritime trade and economic interests.
Arts and culture
The Knights of Malta's contribution to art and culture can be traced back to their settlement on the island of Malta in the early 16th century. The Order built a number of historically and culturally significant buildings and works of art on the island, which not only represent the style of European architecture and art of the time, but also reflect the religious and political beliefs of the Order of Malta.
One of the most famous buildings is the Cathedral of the Knights of St. John, which was built in the 16th century and is one of the most important religious buildings in Malta. The interior of the church is ornately decorated with several paintings by Caravaggio, including works such as The Baptism of St. John the Baptist and The Beheading of the Baptist of St. John. The paintings caused a sensation in the art world of the time and are considered masterpieces of the Renaissance and Baroque styles.
In addition, the Knights of Malta built the Palace of the Order of St. John on the island, a magnificent castle-like building that served as the official residence and political center of the Order. The interior of the palace is lavishly decorated with many ancient artworks and furnishings that reflect the cultural and historical value of the Order. #历史开讲 #
