9. The Order of Montesa: Decline After Papal and Royal Absorption
The Order of Montesa was established in 1317 by King James II of Aragon to succeed the dissolved Knights Templar in the Kingdom of Valencia. Its primary mission was to defend the frontier against Moors and pirates (catholic.com). Over time, the order’s military significance diminished. In 1587, King Philip II of Spain united the office of Grand Master with the Spanish Crown, effectively ending its military independence. Today, the Order of Montesa exists as a civil association under the Spanish monarchy.
