It’s located in “ the Square Mile”- the oldest part of London. It include Inner Temple, Middle Temple. If we compare the financial centre in this area as the heart of London, Temple must be the brain. As the Inns of Court serve as the nerve centres for the legal profession and systems.
This is one of London’s secret gems, largely hidden from view. But one could walk through narrow gateway or gardens, enjoy the beauty of medieval architecture, quiet little gardens and the busy but tranquil atmosphere.
Above is Fountain Court, one of my favourite places in London. I have spent many delightful hours under the magnificent magnolia tree.
Although most indoors are out of the reach of average tourists, one could book a lunch time slot to visit the 16th century Middle Temple Hall, this is the jewel in the Middle Temple crown. The Elizabethan hall dates from 1562 and has one of the most glorious hammerbeam roofs in England.
Let’s see what ChatGPT could tell us :
Question: Introduce “ Inner Temple “ and “Middle Temple “ of London.
ChatGPT:
The Inner Temple and Middle Temple are two of the four Inns of Court in London, the others being Lincoln’s Inn and Gray’s Inn. These historic institutions play a central role in the legal system of England and Wales. They are responsible for training, admitting, and regulating barristers.
The Inner Temple and Middle Temple are located in the heart of London, near the Royal Courts of Justice. They have a rich history dating back to the Knights Templar, who originally occupied the site in the 12th century. Today, these inns are known for their beautiful architecture, including ancient halls, gardens, and libraries, and for maintaining traditions that date back centuries.
Both Inns provide legal education, professional development, and support to their members. They also offer scholarships to law students and play a vital role in the legal community. Their historic and ornate halls are often used for legal and ceremonial occasions, adding to the grandeur and tradition of the legal profession in the UK.
Question: Describe more in depth of its history and functions.
ChatGPT:
The Inner Temple and Middle Temple have a rich and fascinating history, intertwined with the legal, political, and cultural development of England.
Inner Temple
- History: The Inner Temple, along with the Middle Temple, was originally part of the headquarters of the Knights Templar, a religious military order founded in 1118. After the Templars were dissolved in 1312, the Temple Church and surrounding property were given to the Knights Hospitaller. Eventually, in the 14th century, lawyers came to occupy the site and formed the Inner Temple (along with the Middle Temple).
- Functions: The Inner Temple operates as a professional body for barristers in England and Wales. It is responsible for the training, education, and professional development of its members. It also plays a key role in maintaining high standards in the legal profession. The Inner Temple offers a range of legal training courses and is involved in advocacy training and legal scholarship.
Middle Temple
- History: Like the Inner Temple, the Middle Temple was also established on the grounds of the former Templar headquarters. It has been a separate society since 1501, though it shares some facilities and functions with the Inner Temple.
- Functions: The Middle Temple similarly provides education and training for barristers. It plays a significant role in the legal profession, with a focus on ethics, professional standards, and the development of legal practice. The Middle Temple is also known for its extensive library and legal research facilities.
Shared Characteristics
- Architecture: Both the Inner and Middle Temples are renowned for their historic buildings and gardens. The Temple Church, shared by both Inns, is a notable architectural landmark.
- Legal Tradition and Ceremony: These Inns uphold many legal traditions, including the call to the Bar ceremony, where barristers are formally admitted to practice. They also host lectures, moots, and other legal events.
- Community and Support: They provide a sense of community for their members, offering mentoring, networking opportunities, and support throughout their legal careers.
- Cultural Significance
- Literary References: The Inns, especially the Middle Temple, are referenced in literary works, including Shakespeare’s plays.
- Ceremonial Functions: They host important legal and social events, maintaining traditions and rituals that date back centuries.
- Modern Role
- Adaptation to Changing Legal Landscape: While deeply rooted in history, both Inns adapt to the evolving needs of the legal profession, incorporating modern legal education methods and addressing current legal issues.
- The Inner and Middle Temples, with their blend of historic tradition and modern legal practice, continue to be vital institutions in the legal landscape of England and Wales. They not only preserve the rich heritage of the legal profession but also contribute significantly to its ongoing development and integrity.
Question: There are many historical pubs or eateries around Temple, please list some of the famous ones
ChatGPT:
Several historical pubs in the vicinity of the Inner Temple and Middle Temple in London are known for their rich history and traditional character. Some of these pubs have been serving patrons for centuries and are landmarks in their own right. Here are a few notable ones:
- Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese: Rebuilt shortly after the Great Fire of London in 1666, this pub is famous for its literary associations, having been frequented by the likes of Charles Dickens and Samuel Johnson. It’s known for its maze of bars and dining rooms.
- The Seven Stars: Located near the Royal Courts of Justice, The Seven Stars dates back to the 17th century and is known for its traditional decor and ambiance. It survived the Great Fire of London and has been serving patrons ever since.
- The George on the Strand: This historic pub, established in the 18th century, is situated on the Strand, near the Royal Courts of Justice. It combines traditional charm with a modern touch and is a popular spot for legal professionals.
- The Edgar Wallace: Named after the famous writer who once worked in the area, The Edgar Wallace is known for its range of real ales and traditional pub fare. It has a distinctive Edwardian character and is adorned withmemorabilia related to its namesake.
- The Temple Brew House: Although not as old as the others, The Temple Brew House is notable for being a microbrewery and pub located in the heart of the legal quarter. It offers a unique experience with its own craft beers brewed on-site.
- The Lamb and Flag: A bit further away in Covent Garden, The Lamb and Flag dates back to the 17th century and has a rich history, including a reputation for bare-knuckle fighting. It’s one of the oldest pubs in the area.
- Ye Olde Cock Tavern: This pub, located on Fleet Street, has a history dating back to the 16th century. It’s known for its narrow frontage and long history associated with literary and journalistic figures
- Each of these pubs offers a glimpse into the historical and cultural fabric of the area surrounding the Inns of Court, providing both locals and visitors with a traditional British pub experience amidst the backdrop of London’s legal history.
Question: From medieval times, many famous historical figures are associated with Temples, please list some examples.
ChatGPT:
The Temples, particularly the Inner Temple and Middle Temple, have been associated with numerous historical figures over the centuries, especially those in the legal and literary fields. Here are some notable examples:
- Sir Walter Raleigh: An English adventurer, writer, and courtier, Raleigh was a member of the Middle Temple. He is known for his explorations in the Americas and for popularizing tobacco in England.
- Oliver Cromwell: Before becoming a military and political leader and eventually Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, Cromwell studied at the Inner Temple, although he never practiced law.
- William Blackstone: A noted jurist and professor, Blackstone, whose works on English common law (Commentaries on the Laws of England) are still referenced, was a member of the Middle Temple.
- John Selden: An English jurist and scholar of England’s ancient laws and constitution, Selden was a member of the Inner Temple and is noted for his legal and historical writings.
- Henry Fielding: The famous novelist and playwright, known for works like “Tom Jones,” was also a barrister and magistrate. He was a member of the Middle Temple.
- Dr. Samuel Johnson: While not a lawyer, Johnson, the eminent lexicographer, writer, and critic, lived for a time in Inner Temple Lane and frequented the area.
- Edward Coke: A distinguished jurist and Member of Parliament, Coke was a member of the Inner Temple. He is best known for his work on the “Institutes of the Lawes of England” and his role in developing the English common law.
- John Donne: Before becoming a renowned poet and cleric in the Church of England, Donne studied at the Thavie’s Inn legal facility and then at Lincoln’s Inn. He was closely associated with the legal and intellectual circles of the Inns of Court.
These figures highlight the diverse array of talents and professions that have been nurtured and associated with the Inns of Court, reflecting their significant role in English history and culture.
