History

The Civil Order of Alfonso X the Wise (Orden Civil de Alfonso X El Sabio) was established by Francisco Franco on April 11, 1939. It was founded to replace the Civil Order of Alfonso XII, which was abolished during the Second Spanish Republic (1931-1938.)

It is awarded either Spanish or foreign citizens in recognition of meritorious service within the fields of education, science, culture, teaching, and researching.

The Order's grades are the Collar, Grand Cross, Commander by Number (known as well as Grand Officer), Commander, Cross, and Medal. It is conferred upon women and men without differences between their awards.

The Grand Master of the Order is the King of Spain, and the Grand Chancellor is the Minister of Education and Culture.

The Order features an obverse inscription that translates to “Alfonso X the Wise, King of Castile and Leon.”

The Collar is conferred only upon Head of States, Presidents of international organizations, and to international institutions. The Collar must be returned after the death of the recipient.