Im sure its always been there ...
plunder from the crusades etc
In 1126 crusader King Baudouin II died in the Holy Land. In the following year William de Bures and Guy de Brisbarre, along with the Knight Templar Grand Master Hugh de Payens and three other Templars visited Rome where the delegation discussed matters with Pope Honorius II. The purpose of the visit has not been revealed, but can be guessed. Following the knights departure it was learned that Rome recognized the rights of the Order of Knights Templar which had just been founded in the Holy Land. Is it possible the Order’s acceptance was greased by the delivery of religious artifacts?