History

The Order was originally instituted by President Enrico De Nicola to recognize foreigners and Italians who had provided extraordinary and special services to Italy during the reconstruction of the country after World War II.

The Order initially featured the single grade of Knight, but it was amended on July 3, 1948, to include the awards I Class, I Class Breast Star, and II Class.

The design of the Order was changed on September 21, 2001, enamel was added to the insignia and a new inscription was added to the obverse medallion reading “SOLIDARIETÀ ITALIANA.”

It was redesigned a third time in 2011 by President Giorgio Napolitano, and its name was also changed to the Order of the Star of Italy. The 2011 Order was expanded to five grades, and it is awarded to individuals who have promoted the prestige of Italy internationally, and fostered friendly relationships between Italy and other international countries.

The Type I Order became obsolete after 1978, and the Order was not awarded again until it was re-designed in 2001.

The I Class award was initially worn as a breast star, but after the design changes in 2001, the I Class award was worn as a neck badge.

The I Class award is also known as Grand Officer.