Order of Leopold (Belgium)

The Order of Leopold, even religious concord, was founded on 11 July 1832 the Belgian King Leopold I as a general Order of Merit.

Order of classes

The Order was originally donated in four classes and on December 25, 1838 about a fifth class ( Grand Officer ) expanded:

• Grand Cross
• Grand Officer
• Commander
• Officer
• Knight

Order decoration

The religious character consists of a white enamelled cross of St. John with golden balls on the eight tips. In the cross angles parts of an oak and laurel wreath can be seen. It depends on the Belgian royal crown and may be awarded for military merit with swords. The swords are then located between the cross and crown.

The medallion shows on a black ground, the initials of the founder LR ( Leopold Rex ) in golden letters. In order to shield a red hoop runs with gold edging on the lower part of a golden laurel wreath is. On the back of the medallion contains the golden Belgian lion and frost the motto L' UNION FAIT LA FORCE ( Unity makes Stark).

Carrying method

Worn the Grand Cross on a sash from the left shoulder to right hip as well as with a breast star. Grand Officer and Commander bear the distinction of being neck Orders, Grand Officers in addition to a breast star. Officer and Knight decorate the religious character at the band on the left chest. On the officer a rosette ribbon is also attached.

The ribbon is dark red.

Bearers

• See: winner of the Order of Leopold