The Pontifical Equestrian Order of Saint Sylvester, sometimes referred to as the Sylvestrine Order, or the Pontifical Order of Pope Saint Sylvester, is one of five orders of knighthood awarded directly by the Pope as Supreme Pontiff and head of the Catholic Church and as the Head of State of Vatican City. It is intended to honour Catholic laypeople who are actively involved in the life of the Church, particularly as it is exemplified in the exercise of their professional duties and mastership of the different arts.
Knight's cross of the Order of St. Sylvester
Golden Chain of the Order of Saint Sylvester and the Golden Militia prior to 1905.
U.S. President Barack Obama escorted through the Clementine Hall by papal gentlemen wearing the insignia of Knight Grand Cross, 2009
The Order of the Golden Spur, officially known also as the Order of the Golden Militia, is a papal order of knighthood conferred upon those who have rendered distinguished service in propagating the Catholic faith, or who have contributed to the glory of the Church, either by feat of arms, by writings, or by other illustrious acts. With the death in 2019 of the last remaining knight, Grand Duke Jean of Luxembourg, the order is considered dormant.
Livery collar of the Order of Saint Sylvester and the Golden Militia prior to 1905.
Medal of the Order of Saint Sylvester and the Golden Militia, 1841.
A Papal Knight of the Golden Spur, copper engraving by Jacob Andreas Fridrich, 1756
