Spanish Catholic devotional medal featuring the Jerusalem Cross and Latin biblical inscription.
Key Information
• Country: Spain
• Type: Catholic devotional medal
• Title: Cruzada Espiritual Medal
• Period: early 20th century
• Material: silvered metal with red enamel
• Dimensions approx.: 55.78 x 51.74 mm
• Original ribbon present
Medal Design
Obverse:
Central Jerusalem Cross in red enamel surrounded by the Latin inscription:
“TU GLORIA JERUSALEM TU LAETITIA ISRAEL TU HONORIFICENTIA POPULI NOSTRI.”
Translation:
“You are the glory of Jerusalem, the joy of Israel, the honor of our people.”
This biblical phrase comes from the Book of Judith (15:9) and is commonly associated with Marian devotion and Christian symbolism connected with Jerusalem.
Reverse:
Inscription in Spanish: “Cruzada Espiritual”
Translation: “Spiritual Crusade.”
Condition
• Red enamel preserved
• Original ribbon present
• Attractive age patina
• Minor wear consistent with age
For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Historical and Collectible Significance
The Cruzada Espiritual movement was a Catholic devotional initiative encouraging prayer and spiritual commitment in support of Christian missions and the protection of holy places associated with Jerusalem.
Medals like this were issued to participants and supporters of the movement and were commonly worn on devotional ribbons.
The Jerusalem Cross symbol connects the medal with the historic Christian Kingdom of Jerusalem and broader crusader symbolism used in Catholic devotional culture.
Summary
An original early 20th century Spanish Catholic devotional medal associated with the Cruzada Espiritual movement. Featuring a red enamel Jerusalem Cross and biblical Latin inscription, this piece represents an interesting example of Catholic devotional and crusader symbolism.