THE TEMPLARS
SELBORNE
MAP OF SELBORNE INCLUDING THE KNIGHT TEMPLAR LANDS AT SELBORNE, AND ST. MARY's CHURCH BOTH GIFTED BY ADAM DU GURDEN
There was a church on this site before the Conquest, the Norman's rebuilt St. Mary's in the form it is in today. Nearby was the Templar Preceptory of Temple Sotherington, of which very little remains, other than
potential remnants of the chapel, visable from the Manor house.
According to local celebrated resident, naturalist Gilbert White (1720-1793) the Order once had considerable property in the area, but by his time, all that remainded of the nearby preceptory was a 'common' farm house, with a chapel, whose massive thick walls, and narrow windows and once bespeak great antiquity.
it has a present much more of the appearance of a dungeon, that of a room fit for the reception of people and condition.
Today the Church contains three tomb lids described as Templar, (pictured below) there are also ornate tiled floors - including a double head eagle set of tiles.
Learn more about Temple Sotherington & St Mary's on our blog here TEMPLE SOTHERINGTON & ST MARY'S Here
GALLERY
Smaller Stone with Templar Cross on - Maybe a sign to indicate tithe free status of the Manor?
Resembles more like a Templar Burial tombstone - with the Templar cross within a circle
Possible other Templar Tombstone - with Templar Cross - Hidden behind a piano within the Church
The possible tomb effigt of Adam du Gurden - who was reputeldy a large knight - some 6ft 6" in size, which sits with the tomb effigy in terms of size
St Marys Church Temple Selbourne
Temple Selbourne Manor house (hidden from site on private land) possible Chapel remains visible at rear of the property
Temple Selbourne Map