Holy Sepulchre, KNIGHTS OF THE

Holy Sepulchre, KNIGHTS OF THE, an order of knighthood instituted, probably by Pope Alexander VI., for the guardianship of the Holy Sepulchre, and the relief and protection of pilgrims. On the recapture of Jerusalem by the Turks the knights retired to Italy, and settled at Perugia. For a time united with the Hospitalers, the order was reconstituted (1814) in France and in Poland.