The history of the Imperial and Charitable Order

Historical background

The name of the Order honors the memory and tradition of Constantine the Great, the first Christian emperor of Rome, and the memory and tradition of his mother, the Empress Saint Helen.

The history of Constantine the Great Knights begins with the Battle of Milvius Bridge on 28.10.312, where Constantine won Maxentius who ruled in Rome. Before the battle, a group of soldiers swore the oath of loyalty to Constantine and his flag in the name of the honor, courage and service to others. These knights protected the flag of Constantine in forefront of the victorious battle.

Although the history of the Order has Christian roots, members today come from various religions and nationalities. They all support and wish to defend and uphold the same ideals as Constantine’s first knights.

Constantine the Great

Constantine the Great was the Roman Emperor from 306 to 337. He made Christianity the religion of the Roman Empire, ended the persecution of Christians, and restored confiscated property to the churches. Constantine moved the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire to a city that was later named after him, Constantinople.

Saint Helena

Saint Helena lived around 257–328. She had a significant influence on her son, Constantine, and presumably on his religious policies as well. Legend has it that Helena found the True Cross of Jesus during her pilgrimage to Palestine. Both Orthodox and Roman Catholic traditions have canonized Helena as a saint.