Army uniforms have evolved with time. Before the 18th century, there was not just one uniform for the army. In many cases, soldiers wore their own clothes.
Because of this evolution, the existence of different branches - army, air force and navy - and of the different units comprising them, like the Paratroopers, Military Emergencies Unit, and the Royal Guard, army uniforms have very varied shapes, colours, fabrics and accessories.
The Museum's collections contain the uniforms of every unit in the history of the army. In addition, there are special pieces such as fancy, specially made uniforms like Diego de Leon’s, and children’s uniforms.
Military decorations also come in different shapes, because there are many types. Many are stars, crosses or medallions. They are usually made of metal, iron, copper, silver, or gold, although they can also be made of cloth. They are fastened to clothes with pins or suspended from the neck by a ribbon, or may be accompanied by a striped ribbon, placed on one breast.
The most important military decoration of all is the Laureate Cross of the Royal Military Order of San Fernando. While the highest civilian decoration is the Distinguished Royal Order of Charles III.
