Hierarchy & Degrees

Royal Order of Bragança: Hierarchy and Degrees

Sovereign Grand Master
The Sovereign Grand Master is the supreme head of the order, traditionally the Sovereign monarch, even if ex-regnant or from a reigning dynasty. In our case, it is both, thus protecting the Royal Order of Braganza under his sovereignty, according to the oldest tradition. This position represents the highest authority and the embodiment of the values of the order.

Prior General
The Prior General is the principal assistant to the Sovereign Grand Master, responsible for the overall supervision of the order’s activities and administration. Acting as the vice-leader, the Prior General ensures the continuity and efficiency of the order’s governance.

Priors
The Priors are regional or national leaders within the order, responsible for the administration and representation of the order in their respective areas. They play a crucial role in implementing the directives of the Sovereign Grand Master and the Prior General, as well as organizing local events and ceremonies.

Degrees of the Order

Knight of the Grand Collar / Dame of the Grand Collar The highest degree, reserved for heads of state or members of the royal family, recognizing services of the utmost importance and distinction.

Knight of the Grand Cross / Dame of the Grand Cross Granted to individuals of the highest distinction, including political leaders, high-ranking nobles, and internationally renowned figures, for extraordinary services.

Knight of the Grand Officer / Dame of the Grand Officer Intended for those who have demonstrated exceptional and continuous service to the order or the House of Braganza, serving in significant leadership roles.

Knight Commander / Dame Commander Recognizes meritorious services and leadership in causes associated with the order. This degree is conferred on individuals who have stood out for their notable contributions.

Knight Officer / Dame Officer Granted to members who have demonstrated significant service and loyalty to the order, reflecting continuous commitment and meritorious actions.

Knight/Dame The initial degree of knighthood, recognizing the merits and potential of new members. This is the first step in the path of service to the order.

Squire The entry-level degree, intended for promising young individuals or those beginning their journey in the order. This title recognizes potential and commitment to the ideals of the Royal Order of Braganza.
Subsidiary Orders and Recognitions

Companions of Honor A subsidiary order for those who have rendered notable services to the order but are not in a position to receive higher degrees.

Medal of Merit To recognize specific services or acts of bravery. This medal is awarded independently of the hierarchy of degrees, highlighting exceptional deeds.

Insignias and Decorations
Each degree has specific insignias, including medals, sashes, and collars, with designs incorporating symbols of the House of Braganza, such as the royal crown and the coat of arms. These insignias visually represent the honor and prestige associated with each degree.

Chapters and Ceremonies
The order holds annual or biennial chapters where new members are admitted and promoted. The formal investiture ceremonies are conducted with rituals that honor the tradition and history of the Royal Dynasty of Braganza, providing a solemn moment of recognition and celebration.

Admission and Promotion Criteria
Admission and promotion within the Royal Order of Braganza are based on rigorous criteria of merit, length of service, and ongoing contribution. Services rendered to the order, the Makir-Burgundy-Braganza, or humanitarian and cultural causes are the main criteria considered.

This model of hierarchy and degrees for the Royal Order of Braganza combines historical elements of traditional chivalric orders with a modern structure, honoring the tradition of the Dynasty of Makir-Burgundy-Braganza and creating a recognition system for exceptional services.