History

The Order of Cultural Merit was established by Prince Rainier III by Ordinance on December 31, 1952. It is conferred in recognition of exceptional contributions to the letters, arts or sciences through teaching or professional service.

Members of the Order must be at least 40 years old when they are received as Knights. Knights may be promoted to Officer after 8 years, and Officers may be promoted to Commander after 5 years.

The Commander features an obverse inscription that translates to “The Principality of Monaco,” and a reverse inscription that translates to “Arts, Letters, Sciences.”