The Royal and Distinguished Spanish Order of Charles III, originally Royal and Much Distinguished Order of Charles III was established by the King of Spain Charles III by means of the Royal Decree of 19 September 1771, with the motto Virtuti et mérito. Its objective is to reward people for their actions in benefit to Spain and the Crown.
Star and sash of the Order
King Charles III in the robes of the order, the first design used until 1789
Maximilian of Saxony wearing the blue and white sash and Grand Cross of the Order as well as the Spanish Fleece
Portrait of Barthélémy de Theux de Meylandt wearing the Grand Cross, including blue and white sash of the Order
The monarchy of Spain or Spanish monarchy is the constitutional form of government of Spain. It consists of a hereditary monarch that reigns as the head of state, being the highest office of the country. The current King is Felipe VI since 19 June 2014, after the abdication of his father, King Juan Carlos I.
Monarchy of Spain
Felipe of Bourbon and Greece takes the oath before the Cortes Generales during the proclamation ceremony at the Palacio de las Cortes, Madrid the 19th of June, 2014.
Statue of Queen Urraca in the Parque del Buen Retiro in Madrid. Urraca succeeded as queen in 1108.
A copy of the Spanish Constitution, signed by King Juan Carlos, is held at the Palace of the Cortes.
