2025Portuguese Honorific Orders - Special Folder

Portugal is one of the nations with the oldest tradition of awarding honorific distinctions. Portuguese honorific orders originated at the dawn of the nation itself The oldest honorific order, the Military Order of Avis, has its origins in the ancient Order of St Benedict of Aviz While its creation is shrouded in legend, there is no doubtthatit was established during the reign of Afonso Henriques, the country's first monarch. Over the centuries, the orders have formed part of the country's history, emerging with a religious and military character, evolving in line with the political and social context, and becoming secularised Today, they are part of the Portuguese State's award system with the role of Grand Master being assigned to the President of the Republic.