The majority of the villages of the Terra Alta and Ribera d’Ebre regions became juridical centres thanks to the Knights Templar, the warrior monks of the Crusades of Jerusalem. This military-religious Order of the Templar soon made a name for itself. This was mainly due to its austerity, which was in sharp contrast to established practices of Rome.
In economic terms, their efforts made them into the great bankers of Europe and the West. They left their mark on the land of the Ebro by diversifying agricultural crops, making the farmers richer and also by introducing various crafts and skills to the area.
It is not strange therefore that their red cross inspired admiration and raised suspicion in equal amounts. Due to the order’s opposition to Papal rule, the Order of the Knights Templar was wiped out nearly 700 years ago.
The Knights Templar have left great examples of their architecture in the Ribera d’Ebre and Terra Alta regions. This can be seen in the Convent of San Salvador in Horta de Sant Joan, Berrús Hermitage and Miravet Castle where the warrior monks fought to the death in defence of their honour.