Royal Order of Francis I
Royal Order of Francis I
Historical Background
The Order was established on September 28, 1829, by H.M. King Francis I to reward the civil merit of those who distinguished themselves in letters, sciences, arts, and the successful fulfillment of their duties within the Royal House.
Currently, the Royal Order of Francis I is granted for special merits acquired towards the Royal House or for particular merits achieved through exceptional conduct in the protection of human rights.
The honor is also granted by the Grand Master to all those who cannot receive the Constantinian Order, which is reserved only for those who profess the Catholic Religion.
Grand Master
His Royal Highness Prince Charles of Bourbon Two Sicilies, Duke of Castro
Chronology of Grand Masters
- H.M. Francis I, King of the Two Sicilies (I Grand Master from 1829 to 1830)
- H.M. Ferdinand II, King of the Two Sicilies (II Grand Master from 1830 to 1859)
- H.M. Francis II, King of the Two Sicilies (III Grand Master from 1859 to 1894)
- H.R.H. Prince Alfonso of Bourbon Two Sicilies, Count of Caserta (IV Grand Master from 1894 to 1938)
- H.R.H. Prince Ferdinand Pius of Bourbon Two Sicilies, Duke of Calabria (V Grand Master from 1938 to 1960)
- H.R.H. Prince Ranieri of Bourbon Two Sicilies, Duke of Castro (VI Grand Master from 1960 to 1973)
- H.R.H. Prince Ferdinand of Bourbon Two Sicilies, Duke of Castro (VII Grand Master from 1973 to 2008)
- H.R.H. Prince Charles of Bourbon Two Sicilies, Duke of Castro (VIII Grand Master since 2008)
