The Order of Vitéz is a historical Hungarian organisation preserving military traditions, originally established to honour heroes of the First World War and to uphold national values.

It was founded in 1920 by Governor Miklós Horthy, based on a statutory order of the National Assembly. Its purpose was to provide social recognition to war heroes and individuals who rendered outstanding service to the nation.

It was officially established by the Royal Hungarian Government, initiated and founded by Governor Vitéz Nagybányai Miklós Horthy.

“…The Order of Vitéz has a threefold purpose: to reward patriotic virtue coupled with valour, to retain the finest individuals of great times and ensure the survival of the lineage of heroes, and finally, to secure for the Hungarian race, through them and their descendants, a power that will strike down with terrifying force every subversive effort against the state and nation…” – Miklós Horthy

It is primarily a social order based on military traditions, follows Christian values, but is not a church organisation.

Between the two World Wars, membership carried significant social and moral prestige. Members received land grants and were active in politics and public life.

Yes, the Order of Vitéz is closely linked to the Horthy era (1920–1944), as it was established and functioned during this period, being institutionally part of state life.

After 1945, the communist regime banned it, confiscated its assets, and obstructed its operation. Members were persecuted. The Order continued in exile and in secret. Following the regime change, it repatriated to Hungary in 1992 and now operates lawfully.

Read more in our article “Who Continued the Order of Vitéz in Hungary and Abroad?”

Yes. The legally continuous Order of Vitéz is led by Vitéz Count János Molnár-Gazsó, who holds court rulings and state recognition. However, there are disputes with other self-proclaimed groups who unlawfully usurp the name “Order of Vitéz” and its coat of arms.

More information can be found on our “Legal Regulations” page.

Persons of Hungarian descent who have demonstrably excelled in service to the nation and community.

For more information, visit our “Membership Application” page.

Membership is primarily based on merit: e.g., military, national, cultural, scientific, or community service. Admission is always assessed on an individual basis.

For more information, visit our “Membership Application” page.

1. After filling out the application form, it must be sent to the Order’s regional command (preferably the one corresponding to your residence). Upon successful evaluation, the nomination follows. After a strict admission process and oath-taking, one may become a vitéz if they meet the ethical, historical, and national expectations. Admission is always subject to individual assessment.

Yes. Entry is marked by a solemn oath in which the candidate pledges to serve the homeland and Christian morality.

The title “vitéz” is a personal honour conferred by the Order. Membership comes with this title and can be inherited (provided the descendant meets the conditions and applies for it).

Yes, the leader of the Order of Vitéz is called the “Captain General”.

The current Captain General of the Order of Vitéz (since 2011) is Vitéz Count János Molnár-Gazsó.

There is a Captain General, captains, senior captains, seat captains, lieutenants, sergeants, and regular members (vitéz). The structure follows the model of the historical order.

The Order has written statutes defining operations, ethical principles, use of the coat of arms, membership criteria, etc. All details can be found on our “Legal Regulations” page.

Yes, the Order of Vitéz still operates officially.

It has an international network, especially in Hungarian diaspora communities: USA, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, etc.

Hungarian courts have recognised the legally continuous Order of Vitéz and its operation in several rulings, and it is listed in the official state register.

Yes, the Order of Vitéz led by Vitéz Count János Molnár-Gazsó holds final court judgments and operates as an officially registered organisation. It was legally registered as a continuous legal entity by the Metropolitan Court on 3 February 1992, under registration number 4227.

– Historical commemorations, – Charity, – Establishment of scholarships, – Tradition preservation, – Community programmes, – Lectures, – Protection of cultural and national values, – Military grave care, etc.

Yes. Several organisations claim the name “Order of Vitéz”, but not all are legally continuous or lawfully operating. These groups illegally use the name and the “Vitéz coat of arms”, which can be confusing to the uninitiated.

Our article “Who Continued the Order of Vitéz in Hungary and Abroad?” provides a detailed answer to this question.

No. Although in 2017, the Canadian immigration authority mentioned certain self-styled “vitéz orders” in a disputed context, this does not apply to the legally continuous Hungarian organisation, which is not extremist, not a political movement, and condemns totalitarian ideologies.

The title “vitéz” is an honour and moral recognition. Today, a person bearing the title is associated with patriotism, community service, and moral integrity.

Yes, by the principle of direct-line inheritance (originally only to the firstborn son), but only if the heir meets the Order’s ethical standards and takes the oath.

Yes. The Order of Vitéz cooperates with other national, heritage and historical organisations during commemorations and events. These include, among others, the “Hungarian English Cultural Society” and the “Hungarian Hussar Band of England”.

You can find our contact details directly on our websites under the "Contact us" menu item.

Full contact information is available on our “Contact” page. The original website of the Order of Vitéz, created in 1992, is www.vitezirend.com. The other official site, operated with the permission of the Captain General, is the official homepage of the United Kingdom-based senior command at www.vitezirend.co.uk. Additionally, the activities of several regional commands in Hungary can be followed on various social media platforms.

The title of "Vitéz" is not a privilege, but a kind of mission. The Order of Vitéz is a community of Hungarians who, with exemplary national commitment, moral integrity, and willingness to serve, represent Hungarian culture, tradition, and community—wherever in the world they may live.

The title of "Vitéz" is recognition for those who have proven that they serve the Hungarian community not only with words but also with actions.

It is a communal rank that stands for exemplary conduct and moral integrity—not for privileges. It is a spiritual heritage left to us by the heroes of the past—but it must be carried forward worthily in the present.

It is a mission that encourages us to stand up for our Hungarian identity with authenticity, active involvement, and honour.

"The title of 'Vitéz' belongs not only to those who guard the flag, but also to those who carry it forward."

a) Honour and recognition: Wearing the title is an official and public acknowledgment that the individual has genuinely served the cause of the Hungarian nation—through community work, preservation of traditions, religious or cultural activities, for example.

b) Belonging to a value-based community: The Order of Vitéz is not just a title but a moral community, where members are connected by patriotism, honour, and a desire to leave lasting values behind. It also means real human connections and community support.

c) Active representation of Hungarian culture: The title of "Vitéz" gives the opportunity to represent Hungarian tradition with dignity and authenticity at events, commemorations, or national holidays. Your presence carries weight and value.

d) Passing on spiritual heritage: Those who bear the title of "Vitéz" serve as a bridge between past and future. The title is an opportunity to set an example for younger generations—of honour, patriotism, and community responsibility.

e) Your opinion carries greater weight: A statement made by a "Vitéz" is not "just a comment"—the title carries prestige and moral credibility, which, when used responsibly, can have a meaningful impact on the community. In summary: The title of "Vitéz" does not offer material benefits, but provides spiritual, moral, and communal value—to those who commit not only to being born Hungarian, but to actively doing something for the Hungarian nation.

a) Loyal service to the Hungarian nation: The bearer of the title is committed to serving the Hungarian nation, culture, and traditions—whether through preserving identity, building community, or charitable work.

b) Active community participation: A "Vitéz" should strive to take part in the Order’s events, commemorations, balls, and community gatherings—especially those organised by the territorially competent "Törzskapitányság" (Clan Captaincy).

c) Annual contribution payment: To support the functioning of the Order, an annual contribution—an amount determined by the Clan Captaincy—is recommended or expected (e.g., in the United Kingdom this is currently £50 per year).

d) Dignified behaviour – setting an example: The bearer of the title is obliged to demonstrate such moral integrity and conduct in private and public life as is worthy of the Order’s spirit—honour, integrity, moderation, and community service.

e) Protection of the Order’s reputation: The title of "Vitéz" may not be used for political, commercial, or personal gain. Protecting the good reputation of the Order is a shared responsibility of all members.

 f) Readiness to help and represent:

A "Vitéz" should, wherever possible, represent the Order at events, celebrations, and national commemorations—particularly within Hungarian communities abroad, where visibility of national values is especially important.

No, the Order of Vitéz is officially independent of party politics. Members may not represent the Order’s name within political parties, movements, or campaigns, nor use the title of "Vitéz" for political advantage.

What is allowed: Every member may, as a private individual, vote, express opinions, and have an interest in public affairs. However, their personal views must not be linked to the name of the Order of Vitéz, nor should they act as if representing the Order’s official position.

What is forbidden: Representing political parties or campaigning "as a Vitéz".Wearing the uniform or using the title at party events or political rallies.Making political statements in the name of the Order—unless officially approved by the leadership.

The mission of the Order of Vitéz is to serve Hungarian national values, traditions, morality, and community—above party lines and across generations. Political neutrality ensures that the Order may represent all Hungarians, not just one particular ideological direction.

"A member of the Order may be right-wing, left-wing, or centrist—but a 'Vitéz' must serve the entire nation, not just part of it."

36.  The Order of Vitéz does not 'use' people—it offers the opportunity for each person to serve the community with their own talents, knowledge, and experience.The Order does not need 'useful people'—it needs committed Hungarians.Anyone who finds themselves asking: "What could I do for my nation?"—has already set one foot on the path of vitéz service.

In the Vitézi Rend (Order of the Valiant), a “cadet” holds a preparatory or trainee status. This refers to an individual who is not yet a full member of the Order but is already participating in its life and preparing for eventual admission.

The essence of cadet status in the Vitézi Rend:

It is a category created for young people or newcomers, intended to introduce cadets to the spirit, traditions, and rules of the Order. While cadets do not yet hold the full title of vitéz (valiant), they are committed to the ideals of the Order. They are typically guided and mentored by senior members. In some cases, cadet status may be a prerequisite for becoming a full member.

Who can become a cadet?

Generally, young individuals who wish to join the Order either out of family tradition (e.g. as a descendant of a vitéz) or personal interest.

What is required to become a full member from cadet status?

Good conduct, dedication, and often active community service.The final decision on admission is made by the leadership of the Vitézi Rend.