The Middle Temple is one of the four Inns of Court around the Royal Courts of Justice in London. The others are Inner Temple, Gray's Inn and Lincoln's Inn. It is an independent enclave physically within the City of London, but not governed by the Corporation of London.
The Temple derives its name from the Knights Templar, who formerly occupied the site. Following the separation of canon law and common law in the 13th century, the Inns of Courts originated as hostels and schools for the emerging class of lawyers. The Middle Temple was so called because its hall was in the middle of the Temple area.
The Inn ceased to be responsible for legal education in 1852, although it continues to provide supplementary training. Most of the complex is made up of barrister's offices, which are known as "chambers". Its other main current activities are maintenance of the library and social functions.