This marking found on some Portuguese bayonets unintentionally resembles a cloverleaf. The Cross of Christ (Cruz de Cristo) or Portuguese Cross (Cruz Portuguesa) symbolizes the Military Order of Our Lord Jesus Christ (Ordem Militar de Nosso Senhor Jesus Cristo).
The Order of Christ is the most prominent of the three Portuguese military Orders of Chivalry that date back to Medieval times. The order was instituted in 1319 and was, effectively, a continuation of the Knights Templar. King Denis of Portugal refused to persecute the Knights Templar after the order was abolished, as was done in other states where the Catholic Church held political influence. The order was instrumental in securing for Portugal, colonial conquests that arose out of Portugal’s global maritime explorations from 1415-1542.
The Order of Our Lord Jesus Christ was represented by a red Latin cross with arms outstretched (a cross pattée or footed cross). The Cross of Christ remains one of the main national symbols of Portugal today. The Order of Christ was secularized in 1789, becoming an order of merit bestowed as an honor upon individuals who serve in high political and military office; and, individuals who perform meritorious service to the Portuguese Crown.
