During the 14th century, the Order of St. John began to adopt the characteristics of a sovereign entity after acquiring Rhodes and its surrounding islands. Governed by the Grand Master and the Council, the Order developed its own currency and established diplomatic relations, reflecting its growing political and administrative influence.
As knights from across Europe joined the Order, they naturally grouped together based on shared language and cultural heritage. In 1319, during the Chapter General in Montpellier, the Order formalised this practice by organising its members into linguistic and cultural divisions called “Langues” or Tongues. These divisions incorporated Priories, Bailiwicks, and Commanderies, creating a structure that facilitated governance and communication.
The Langues were based on cultural and linguistic affinities rather than emerging national borders. For instance, the German Langue included members from Poland and Slavic regions despite linguistic differences. Initially, seven Langues were established: Provence, Auvergne, France, Italy, Aragon (including Navarre), England (with Scotland and Ireland), and Germany. In 1462, Castile and Portugal separated from the Langue of Aragon to form an eighth Langue. Each Langue was overseen by a Pilier, who held a senior leadership role within the Order. They also maintained “auberges” or headquarters used for meetings, living spaces, and communal meals.
By the mid-15th century, this organisational framework was firmly in place, allowing the Order to maintain cohesion across its diverse membership. Although the traditional Langue system began to dissolve following the loss of Malta in 1798, the need for a structured governance system persisted. National Grand Priories were gradually established, aligning with the modern era while maintaining the Order’s historical identity. These Grand Priories functioned at the national level under the authority of an international Supreme Council, ensuring global coordination and continuity of the Order’s mission.
Today, this structure continues to reflect the Order’s commitment to its original values of service, charity, and unity while adapting to the needs of a modern, international membership. The Grand Priories and their associations uphold the traditions of the Langues, connecting the past with the present in service to humanity.