The history of the Knights of Ice has its roots in the ancient history of the Orders of Chivalry but is linked to Antarctica
The history of the Knights of Ice: this monastic and military order arose during the First Crusade to defend the holy sites of Jerusalem and protect pilgrims visiting the city. Over the centuries, the Knights expanded and settled in different parts of the world, facing wars and clashes with other factions.
One of the most significant moments in the history of the Knights of Ice and after the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem was their presence on the island of Rhodes, where they strengthened the fleet and defended the island from sieges by the Ottoman Turks for more than 200 years. The Knights’ presence in Rhodes was an important moment in military and naval history, as these valiant warriors were among the few who could compete with the Muslims in the open field. During this period, the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem developed a strong chivalric and noble tradition, which remained alive even after the loss of Rhodes.
Later, the Knights settled on the island of Malta, where they consolidated their power and gained recognition from European states. During this period, the Order of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem reached its zenith, becoming one of the most powerful and influential of its time. The Knights of Malta devoted themselves to the defense of the island, developing a strong military and naval tradition.
However, the history of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem took a turn during the 18th century, when the Order suffered a severe blow with the abandonment of Malta. A group of about 400 noble Knights took refuge in St. Petersburg and asked Tsar Paul I to become their Grand Master. It was from this select group of Knights that the Order of the Knights of Ice, a kind of personal guard of Paul I, was born.
Alexander I offers Fabian Gottlieb the command of the Knights of Ice
After the assassination of Paul I, Alexander I became the tsar of Russia and continued to maintain the Knights of Ice group as a kind of personal guard. Gottlieb, formerly a member of the Grand Priory of Russia of the Order of St. John, was one of the main architects of the creation of the Knights of Ice and led its operations for many years. Both during his expeditions and after 1822 to protect the lands discovered and given to him by the Tsar: the continent now known as Antarctica.
His close friendship with Alexander I and his role as commander of the Knights of Ice made him an important figure in the Russian imperial court.
The Order of the Knights of Ice maintained the chivalric and noble traditions of its predecessor, but adapted to modern times without losing sight of its mission to defend the values of humanity. The Order devoted itself to the defense of human rights, social and health care, and scientific and medical research. In addition, the Order promoted interreligious dialogue and world peace, following the teachings of Pope St. John Paul II.
The Principality of New Malta, the official headquarters of the Order of the Knights of Ice, is a place where justice is the core value.
The Knights of Ice engage in charitable and assistance activities, with special attention to the needs of the most vulnerable, following the principle of Christian solidarity and charity. Examples of their activities include distributing food and clothing to the poor, caring for the sick and elderly, protecting the environment, and promoting culture and education.
The Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, with its section of the Knights of Ice, also engages in the promotion of peace and justice at the international level.
The Knights of Ice and humanitarian missions
The Knights of Ice collaborate with other international organizations and participate in humanitarian missions around the world.
In addition to their welfare and charitable activities, the Knights of Ice are also distinguished by their chivalric tradition, which dates back to the days of the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem.
In conclusion, the history of the Knights of Ice is closely linked to the history of the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, one of the oldest and most prestigious chivalric institutions in the world. The Knights of Ice keep alive the traditions and values of the Order, engaging in charitable activities, assistance, promotion of peace and justice, and following strict chivalric discipline.
In addition, the Knights of Ice are distinguished by their uniform, which echoes the style of the ancient Knights of Malta. The uniform includes a black tunic with a white cross, a white cape with black lining, black pants, black shoes and a hat with a white cross. The uniform is worn during official ceremonies and is a symbol of membership in the Order. The cloaks of the princes are adorned with a golden cross.
The activities of the Knights of Ice take place in many countries around the world, including Italy, where the Order has an office. The Order also plays an active role in international cooperation, promoting the culture of peace, solidarity and social justice.
In conclusion, the Knights of Ice represent one of the most prestigious chivalric institutions in the world, with a thousand-year history rooted in the tradition of the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem. The Order is actively engaged in the promotion of peace, solidarity and social justice, following strict knightly discipline and keeping alive the traditions and values of the ancient knights.
