Jerusalem cross

Form

A large cross potent (each arm ending in a crossbar) with a small Greek cross in each of the four quarters.

When it is documented

The arms of the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem from the 13th century (on coins by 1284–85, and in early armorials). It was not used by the kingdom’s 12th-century rulers.

Context

Still the insignia of the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land and of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre.

Links in the Atlas

• Emblem of Order of the Holy Sepulchre (Order)

  The red Jerusalem cross is the order’s emblem; the form is medieval, its use by the order later.

Sources and how they were checked

• Form; arms of the Kingdom of Jerusalem; coin of John I of Cyprus 1284–85; not used by 12th-century rulers; current users.

  Wikipedia, “Jerusalem cross” · checked 2026-10-21 (tertiary reference; coins and armorials not inspected)