- Time Period: Pre-World War I
- Institution: 1847
- Country: Vatican
The Order of Pope Pius IX, also known as the Pian Order, is a papal order of knighthood originally established by Pope Pius IV in 1560. Currently, it holds the distinction of being the highest honor bestowed by the Holy See, as the Orders of Christ and the Golden Spur are presently dormant. After falling out of use, the order was reinstated by Pope Pius IX on 17 June 1847.
On June 17, 1847, Pope Pius IX revived the Order with the decree Romanis Pontificibus, tracing its lineage back to the ancient order established by Pope Pius IV in March 1559 through the bull Pii patris amplissimi.
These distinguished knights comprised the lay court of the Roman Pontiff, actively participating in his daily life by providing escort services, residing in the Apostolic Palace, sharing meals with the Pontiff, and accompanying him in his daily duties.
The Ranks of the Order of Pope Pius IX
The Order comprises five classes.
At the apex of the order stands the Collar, reserved for Catholic heads of state during official visits to the Holy See. The Grand Cross, the highest Papal accolade for lay individuals, is typically conferred upon resident Ambassadors accredited to the Holy See after two years in their post. It is also occasionally bestowed upon extraordinary Catholics worldwide for exceptional contributions, particularly in the realms of international affairs and service to the Church and society.
The Knight rank is exceedingly rare and reserved for Catholic faithful of esteemed stature who have provided notable service to the Holy See or the Pontiff personally, often hailing from ancient European noble lineages.
The remaining ranks of Commander and Commander with Star are sparingly granted to lay Catholics, particularly those in diplomatic roles, in recognition of outstanding merit or contributions to the Church and society. While primarily awarded to Catholics, the order may, on diplomatic grounds, be conferred upon non-Catholics and individuals of other faiths.
The Order of Pope Pius IX Design
The insignia of the order is a standard octagram crafted from blue enamel, with gold flames filling the gaps between the rays.
Engraved on the white central medallion are the founder’s name surrounded by the words “Virtuti et Merito” (“Virtue and Merit”). The reverse side mirrors this design, replacing “Pius IX” with “Anno 1847.”
The official uniform, seldom worn, comprises a finely embroidered dark blue evening coat adorned with golden epaulettes, paired with white trousers, and topped with a white-plumed bicorne.
