History

The Imperial Order of San Carlos (Orden Imperial de San Carlos) was instituted in Mexico by Emperor Maximiliano I/Maximilian I on April 10, 1865. It was founded at behest of Empress Carlota of Mexico who celebrated each year with great devotion the day of St. Charles Borromeo.

The Order was conferred exclusively upon noble women in recognition of distinguished acts of charity, and assistance to community and those in need.

The Order consisted of two grades; the I Class Grand Cross was awarded exclusively to foreign noble women, mainly from Europe, and it was limited to 24 bestowals. The II Class Cross was conferred upon Mexican noble women, and it was unlimited bestowals.

The Order was extinguished soon after Maximilian I was exiled, and executed in 1867.

The Order's badge features a Latin reverse inscription that connotes "Humility in Exceptional Degree".

The Grand Cross was awarded on a sash.