History

This Cross was instituted by Pope Pius IX in commemoration of the Battle of Mentana, and the other battles that were fought to protect Rome against Garibaldi.

The Cross was awarded to Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, and all other ranks of men in the Papal Army and French Corps who participated in these battles. 

The ribbon may be decorated with clasps associated with the battles in which the recipient participated, including "BAGNOREA," "VITERBO," "NEROLA," " ACQUAPENDENTE," " MONTE-LIBRETTI," " MONTE-ROTONDO," “ROMA,” and " MENTANA."

The Silver Cross (for Officers) is composed of silver and was awarded to higher ranking Officers. These crosses may have been manufactured privately.