Monaco’s Ambassador to the Holy See, Philippe Orengo, has been awarded the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Pius IX, the highest honour granted by the Vatican to foreign diplomats.
The distinction, known as the Ordre Pian, was conferred by Pope Francis on the occasion of the 12th anniversary of his pontificate. The title recognises exceptional diplomatic service and is rarely bestowed. Ambassador Orengo was presented with the insignia during a ceremony in the Salle des Parements of the Apostolic Palace, led by Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, Substitute for General Affairs at the Secretariat of State.
The Grand Cross is the most senior class of the Order of Pius IX and is traditionally reserved for heads of state, high-ranking officials and ambassadors accredited to the Holy See who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to their roles. With the authorisation of H.S.H. Prince Albert II, Ambassador Orengo accepted the award on behalf of the Principality.
Philippe Orengo has served as Monaco’s ambassador to both the Holy See and the Sovereign Order of Malta. Throughout his tenure, he has contributed to strengthening diplomatic ties and supporting shared humanitarian and interfaith goals. His recognition by the Vatican underscores the significance of Monaco’s longstanding relationship with the Holy See.
The Order of Pius IX was instituted in 1847 by Pope Pius IX and remains one of the oldest and most prestigious papal honours still in use. Ambassador Orengo now joins a select group of diplomats who have received this rare accolade.
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Main photo: Philippe Orengo, Monaco’s Ambassador to the Holy See and the Sovereign Order of Malta, receives the rank of Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Pius IX from Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, Substitute for General Affairs of the Secretariat of State. Source: Vatican Media