The Order of Prince Henry (or Ordem do Infante Dom Henrique in Portuguese) is a distinguished Portuguese order of knighthood established on 2 June 1960 to mark the 500th anniversary of Prince Henry the Navigator’s death. Prince Henry was a pivotal figure in the Age of Discovery. The Order underwent minor reforms in 1962 and 1980.
This five-tier order recognizes significant contributions to Portugal, particularly in the expansion of its culture, history, and values, with a focus on maritime history. Membership in each grade is limited by the Order’s constitution, and titles are awarded by the President of Portugal, who serves as the Grand Master.
The Order of Prince Henry Grades
The Order of Prince Henry consists of several classes, listed in decreasing order of seniority:
Grand Collar (Grande-Colar – GColIH)
Grand Cross (Grã-Cruz – GCIH)
Grand Officer (Grande-Oficial – GOIH)
Commander (Comendador – ComIH)
Officer (Oficial – OIH)
Knight/Dame (Cavaleiro – CvIH / Dama – DmIH)
Additionally, there are a Silver Medal (Medalha de Prata – MedPIH) and a Gold Medal (Medalha de Ouro – MedOIH). The Grand Collar is a special distinction that can only be awarded to heads of state.
The Order of Prince Henry Design
The insignia of the Order features ribbons and medals characterized by equal stripes of blue, white, and black, either horizontal or vertical, along with a ruby-enameled golden cross pattée.
The stars of the Grand Officer and Grand Cross include the inscription “Talant de bien faire”.
