How were confessions obtained from many Knights Templar in France?

To obtain confessions from the Knights Templar in France, King Philip IV utilized torture to extract false admissions of guilt.123

Following the mass arrest of Templars on October 13, 1307, members were subjected to brutal interrogation methods. Under this duress, many confessed to fabricated charges, including heresy, homosexuality, idol worship, and spitting on the cross during initiation rites.341

The use of torture was a fundamental tool in Philip IV’s campaign to dismantle the order, which he likely targeted to seize its immense wealth and eliminate its independent power. While many Templars, including the Grand Master Jacques de Molay, initially confessed under these conditions, numerous members later recanted their statements when given the opportunity, explicitly stating that their previous admissions had been exacted through torture. Despite these retractions, the king continued his pursuit, ultimately leading to the suppression of the order and the execution of its leaders.3451