The Pontifical Order of Pius IX

The Pontifical Order of Pius IX An Order of Pian knights was founded by Pius IV in about 1560, but this fell into disuse and the present Order, was instituted by Pope Pius IX in 1847, and may be regarded as a new foundation.

The Pontifical Order of Pius IX is the most senior active Pontifical Order in use today. Its highest grades are reserved for Sovereigns and Heads of State, and in general terms its middle ranks to individuals such as senior diplomats accredited to the Holy See. Previous recipients include the late King Olav V of Norway and King Gustav VI Adolf of Sweden.

Living recipients of the higher ranks include HE President Lech Walesa of Poland, HM King Juan Carlos I of Spain, HE President Mario Soares of Portugal (below), HM Queen Margrethe II of Denmark (right).

In Britain, previous members included HMEH Frà Andrew Bertie (left), Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, Lord Hunt of Tanworth and Miles, Duke of Norfolk.

Generally fewer than seventy awards are made annually world-wide.