- Time Period: Pre-World War I
- Institution: 1 September 1831
- Country: Vatican
The Order of St. Gregory the Great (or Pontifical Equestrian Order of St. Gregory the Great, known in Latin as Ordo Sancti Gregorii Magni and in Italian as Ordine di San Gregorio Magno), was founded on September 1, 1831, by Pope Gregory XVI, following his ascent to the papacy seven months prior.
This order stands among the five orders of knighthood of the Holy See. It is conferred upon Catholic individuals, as well as certain distinguished non-Catholics, in acknowledgment of their personal dedication to the Holy See and the Catholic Church. This recognition is granted for their exceptional service, unwavering support of the Holy See, and the positive influence they exert in their communities and countries.
The inaugural statement affirms that individuals honored with the Order of St. Gregory the Great are recognized for their loyalty to the Holy See, noble lineage, noteworthy deeds, or charitable contributions. Recipients must uphold their reputation through ongoing meritorious actions and demonstrate unwavering fidelity to God and the Pope.
The award imposes no specific obligations on recipients towards the Catholic Church beyond the general expectations outlined above.
The Order of St. Gregory the Great Design
The insignia of the order is an eight-pointed cross, featuring a depiction of St. Gregory on the front and the motto “Pro Deo et Principe” (For God and Ruler) on the back. This cross is suspended from a ribbon in red and gold.
In ecclesiastical heraldry, individuals honored with the prestigious rank of Grand Cross may exhibit a red and gold ribbon encircling the shield in their personal coats of arms. However, recipients of lower ranks typically display an appropriate ribbon beneath the shield.
The civilian and military insignia differ in their presentation. Civilian recipients wear the cross suspended from a laurel wreath, while military recipients wear it suspended from a trophy of arms.
