H.E. Fra. Olivier VANEECKHOUT
GRAND COMMANDER PRECEPTOR OF FRANCE
We are pleased to announce the installation of our new Grand Priory France.
The Grand Priory of France’s name is:
“ OSMTJ FRANCE / OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL – “Rennes-le-Château”
and is located at the most “Sacred Ground” for both Templars and Freemasons.
It works under the expert guidance of: H.E. Fra. Olivier VANEECKHOUT, Grand Commander Preceptor of France.
Brother Olivier Vaneeckhout was born in 1972. After spending 25 years in the corporate world, he decided to follow his true calling. He moved to the beautiful south of France to pursue his life mission: to guide people through the rich history and mystical landscapes of this region, and help them reconnect with their essence.
He specialized in Druidism, Shamanism, Esoteric and Spiritual Knowledge, focusing on the special force fields and energy sources. Energy sources which, by the way, played a very important role and were fully utilized by the Templars and their brothers the Cathars when they installed a new establishment.
With a background in Economics, specialized in Finance, (Master in Economics / Master in Bank Management) his journey led him to Villa Sainte Marie, near the Pyrenees in the Cathar region close to Carcassonne—a place filled with history, legends, and natural beauty.
The Languedoc region, which includes Rennes-le-Château, was a vital center of Templar activity during the 12th and 13th centuries. The Templars established numerous commanderies (e.g. Campagne-sur-Aude, Mirepoix, Montaillou,…), castles and churches throughout the region. This area was not only significant for its military value but also for its wealth, generated through agriculture, trade, and the management of estates. The Templars played a crucial role in the local economy, often working in close cooperation with the powerful nobility.
Our New Grand Priory: “ OSMTJ FRANCE / OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL – “Rennes-le-Château”
is located in the centre of: The Languedoc, in the Heart of the Cathar Region and at the Sacred Paths of the Templars
- Rennes-le-Château: With the many secrets of this legendary village, known for its ‘special’ connections to the Templars and the ‘Masons’ and the mysterious priest Bérenger Saunière.
- The Legacy of Grand Master Blanchefort: Bertrand de Blanchefort, who served as the fourth Grand Master of the Knights Templar from 1156 to 1169, is credited with reorganizing the Templars’ financial and administrative structures, which contributed to the Order’s prosperity in areas like Languedoc.
- Templar Strongholds of Le Bezu: The Templar Castle of Le Bézu, perched high in the Corbières mountains, overlooked the strategic peak of Bugarach, offering a commanding view of the surrounding landscape. This fortress was crucial for controlling the routes between the Aude Valley and the Mediterranean, making it a key defensive position for the Knights Templar. The proximity to Rennes-le-Château and other significant sites added to its importance, fueling legends of hidden treasures and secret Templar activities.
- Marie Magdalena : Maria Magdalena holds a central place in the mystical legends and heritage of the Languedoc region. Local traditions say that she traveled to this area, bringing with her sacred knowledge. Her presence is echoed in the many chapels and sites dedicated to her throughout the region.