History

The Order of Cultural Merit was established by King Carol II in 1931. It was suppressed in 1944 and was not awarded after the abolition of the Romanian monarchy until it was reinstated in 2000 following the collapse of the communist regime.

The Order is conferred upon Romanian citizens and foreigners in recognition of achievements in a variety of cultural fields. From 1931-1944 it was awarded in nine different categories for merit in science, education, the National Guard, scouting and sport, social welfare, literature, music and theatre, religion, and general culture. It is currently awarded for merit in literature, music, fine arts, performance arts, national heritage, religion, scientific research, architecture, and the promotion of culture. The categories have always been denoted by different ribbons.

From 1931-1944 membership in I Class Knight grade was awarded according to the following restrictions: 200 Romanians and 250 foreigners for merit in scientific research; 300 Romanians and 400 foreigners for merit in education; 200 Romanians and 200 foreigners for merit in scouting, sport, and physical exercise; 200 Romanians and 200 foreigners for merit in social welfare; 200 Romanians and 250 foreigners for merit in literature; 120 Romanians and 150 foreigners for merit in music and theatre; 300 Romanians and 400 foreigners for merit in religion; and 150 Romanians and 150 foreigners for general cultural merits.

There are two models of the I Class Knight. The first features the portrait of King Carol II and the second features the portrait of King Mihai I. Both versions feature an obverse inscription that translates to “Through Culture Towards Liberty.”

There may be additional versions of the I Class Knight that differ in manufacturer, size, or composition.

The later decorations are listed in the Orders of Romania (1990-). See also the Medal of Cultural Merit in the Medals & Decorations of the Kingdom of Romania (1881-1947) and Romania (1990-) for the medal that was created alongside this Order.