History

The Order of Maria Isabel Luisa (Orden de la Reina Maria Isabel Luisa) was established by King Fernando VII/ Ferdinand VII on June 19, 1833. It was founded in commemoration of the vow ceremony of Queen Maria Isabel Luisa, future Queen Isabel II/Isabella II, heiress of the Spanish throne.

It was awarded to Spanish military personnel in recognition of meritorious services either in combat or peace time.

At the beginning the Order had an unique class, Silver Cross, to reward all the troops. In 1839, the Enameled Cross was added to award high ranks as Generals or Officers.

The members of the troops who had promoted officers were authorized to laminate in gold their silver decorations. Some versions have arms with scales.

The Order was annulled on December 9, 1868 and it was replaced by the Order of Military Merit.

The Silver Cross was conferred upon Non-Commissioned Officers and other low military ranks.