History

The Royal Council of the Military Orders (Consejo de las Órdenes Militares) was founded in Spain in 1498, when the Spanish Kingdom obtained the Grand Master ship of the four Antiques Military Orders; the Military Order of Calatrava was incorporated in 1489, the Order of Santiago in 1493, and Alcantara in 1494. The Order of Montesa might be added in 1587. The Council was established to manage the four Military Orders.

This Council acquired great power, authority and wealth; it was in charged of matters regarding to consultation, administration and justice in Spain. It dealt as well with the Spanish scholarship, monasteries, the conservation of knighthood principles, and the defense of the realm of Spain, and the Catholic faith.

In 1793, the Order fought against French Revolution at request of King Carlos IV/Charles IV of Spain.

After fifty years of vacant of the king of Spain, Juan Carlos I named his father Juan Carlos de Borbon president of the Royal Council of the Military Orders on April 9, 1981.

Currently, the Council exists and its seat is located in Madrid.

It may be awarded to those who belong to the council; however, this information is not confirmed. It is unknown as well the motives why the badge is granted.

The Council insignia is a trefoil cross featuring the symbols of the Military Orders of Santiago, Calatrava, Alcantara, and Montesa on its arms.