Order of Christ Cross Facts for Kids

Cross of Order of Christ

The Cross of the Order of Christ is a famous symbol from Portugal. It is also called the Cross of Christ or the Portuguese Cross. This cross comes from a group called the Order of Christ, which started in 1319.

Later, during the time of Prince Henry the Navigator, this cross became very important. It was linked to the Portuguese discoveries, when brave sailors explored new lands. It also became a symbol of the Portuguese Empire. The cross looks a bit like a cross pattée or a cross potent.

History of the Cross
Where You Can See It Today
Gallery
- Historical Examples
- Contemporary Examples
See also

History of the Cross

A replica of a Portuguese caravel, a ship used for discoveries

The Order of Christ, led by Prince Henry the Navigator, played a big part in the Portuguese Discoveries. Because of this, the Cross of Christ was painted on the sails of Portuguese ships. These ships included caravels and carracks, which sailed across the oceans.

This emblem became a lasting symbol of Portugal's explorations. It is one of the main symbols of the discoveries and the Portuguese Empire.

Later, Manuel, who was a duke and leader of the Order of Christ, became the King of Portugal. He started using the Cross of Christ as a national symbol for Portugal. Since then, it has been a common symbol in Portugal and, later, in Brazil.

When Pedro declared Brazil's independence, he became the Emperor of Brazil. The Cross of Christ was also used on the flag and coat of arms of the old Empire of Brazil.

Since 1789, you can see the Cross of Christ on the Sash of the Three Orders.

Where You Can See It Today

Crosses of the Order of Christ at the Monastery of Batalha

Today, the Cross of Christ appears on many flags and emblems in Portugal and Brazil. For example, it is on the flags of the city of São Paulo in Brazil. It is also on the flag of the Autonomous Region of Madeira in Portugal.

You can find it on the coats of arms of many cities in both countries. It is also on the badges of the Portuguese and Brazil national football teams. The cross is even on the planes of the Portuguese Air Force.