FOREWORD – ORDER OF THE EUROPEAN LION
The Order of the European Lion derives its name from Panthera leo europaea, the European lion that once roamed vast parts of the continent but has since become extinct. This remarkable species, praised for its strength and stately appearance and referred to in ancient sources as the King of Lions, forms the historical and symbolic foundation of our Order. Its legacy lives on in our emblem and in the values we seek to uphold: dignity, dedication, and integrity.
The Order of the European Lion distinguishes itself fundamentally from existing orders. It is not a membership organisation, not a religious institution, and not a governmental body, but an exclusive, culturally inspired Order.
The Chapter of the Order of the European Lion is a carefully composed college of authoritative individuals from various European countries, each with demonstrable merit within their respective fields.
The Chapter is supported in its operations by the Executive Board of the Order, which is responsible for implementing policy guidelines, ensuring administrative continuity, and organising practical activities. The Chapter evaluates every nomination entirely independently, impartially, and with the utmost care.
Anyone may nominate a person or institution for a distinction, regardless of origin, nationality, belief, or gender. The conditions for eligibility are strict, and the application procedure is outlined elsewhere on this website. The documents required to submit an application can be requested via email. If an application is rejected, the decision is final and irrevocable. No reasons are provided for a rejection, in accordance with applicable privacy legislation and to protect all parties involved.
The Order recognises a wide range of categories, including sport, nature and science, diplomacy, philanthropy, volunteer work, arts and culture, career achievements, innovation and technology, humanitarian engagement, education and training, societal impact, heritage and historical preservation, environment and sustainability, entrepreneurship and leadership, and international cooperation.
Within all these domains, individuals are honoured who excel through exceptional dedication, courage, perseverance, and meaningful contributions to society.
Submitting an application is always entirely free of charge. The official certificate accompanying a granted distinction is likewise provided free of cost.
The Order of the European Lion does not sell titles, ranks, or recognitions. Distinctions are awarded solely on the basis of established criteria and never on the basis of financial contributions. Recipients may, entirely at their own discretion, choose to acquire an accompanying insignia or medal. This is an optional physical object that stands apart from the recognition itself and is never a requirement for obtaining the distinction.
In addition to the distinctions in the ranks of Knight, Officer, Commander, Grand Cross, and Grand Ribbon, the Chapter may also grant Awards to institutions and individuals who have made exceptional contributions to society. These recognitions are bestowed upon organisations, associations, volunteer groups, or individuals who, outside the formal order distinctions, have delivered outstanding contributions in social, cultural, humanitarian, or societal fields. The Awards allow the Chapter to honour merits that do not necessarily fall within the traditional system of decorations.
The Chapter may also decide to attach a monetary prize to a granted Award if deemed appropriate. This financial support may serve as encouragement for further activities, as recognition for proven dedication, or as a means to strengthen ongoing projects of the laureates.
In addition to the annual official presentations during the “Gala of the European Lion”, the Order offers optional ceremonial packages. These packages make it possible for the distinction to be presented by the Grand Master or his representative outside the annual Gala. These ceremonies range from modest, intimate moments to highly luxurious gala events.
For the most exclusive occasions, the Order offers the glamorous concept “The Diamond Celebration of the European Lion”, a festive conclusion to the ceremony during which, after the sabrage of champagne, each guest receives a glass. In these glasses is placed a zirconia, except in one glass, which contains a real diamond. During the event, the stone may be examined for authenticity. Only one guest (or several upon request) per ceremony or gala event may discover a real diamond and will receive the certificate of authenticity together with a medal of the Order: an exclusive artwork of the Order of the European Lion, depicting the lion holding the diamond in its forepaws. This exceptional medal is awarded only once per event, making the moment extraordinary and unforgettable.
For the official distinctions within the Order of the European Lion, the Latin designation Ordo Leonis Europaei has been deliberately chosen. This choice underscores the historical connection with the Latin name of the European lion, Panthera leo europaea, and lends the distinction a timeless, international, and dignified character.
The Order of the European Lion thus represents an independent, respectful, and prestigious form of recognition—an order that does not revolve around membership, but around the careful and conscientious honouring of those who excel through exceptional dedication, courage, and perseverance within the various categories.
The Chapter of the Order of the European Lion
