A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Aldrovandi family of Italy.
Reg. 9456 · Italian, A–C
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
Colours
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Gold (Or)Means: Generosity
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“D'azur au chev., soutenant une fasce en divise, surm. d'une rose, le tout d'or.”
ItalyBologne, c. 1775
Where the Aldrovandi Arms Were Recorded
Bologne
Map of Italy showing where the Aldrovandi arms are recorded
The Aldrovandi arms were recorded in Bologne, c. 1775.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Italy in this period.
Alvise Giovanni Mocenigo
Sovereign of the period
Alvise Giovanni Mocenigo
1763–1778
Reigning in Italy when the Aldrovandi arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Italy
In the Italian states, coats of arms were often used by noble families to show their status and history. These symbols were passed down through the generations to all legitimate male descendants. Younger branches of a family usually kept the original design but sometimes added small changes to distinguish their specific line from the main branch.
Granting authority
Various local rulers and city governments controlled the use of coats of arms across the different Italian states.
How they got arms
Families often assumed their own arms or received them as official grants from local lords, popes, or city councils.
Where arms were recorded
Arms were recorded in local city archives or private family books rather than in one single national register.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Italy.
Origin & History of the Aldrovandi Family in Italy
The Aldrovandi family is deeply rooted in the history of Bologna, Italy, where they established themselves as a prominent and influential lineage over several centuries. While records confirm their significant presence in the city by 1775, the family name had already gained prestige long before that date through their active involvement in local governance, law, and academic life. Members of the family were often recognized as scholars and public officials who helped shape the cultural landscape of the region. They were particularly well-known for their contributions to the University of Bologna, which is one of the oldest universities in the world. By maintaining strong ties to the city’s administrative and intellectual circles, the Aldrovandi name became synonymous with the civic development of Bologna throughout the late medieval and early modern periods.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Aldobrandus
A Germanic compound meaning old or ancient sword.
This name
AldrovandiA patronymic surname derived from the personal name Aldobrand, signifying a descendant of the sword-bearer.
also spelled
Aldrovando
Aldrovandis
Aldrovand
Related arms
Pauvresimilar arms
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Fanti, Mario. Le famiglie nobili bolognesi. 1997
Ghinato, Alberto. I notabili bolognesi e la gestione del potere. 1985
Archivio di Stato di Bologna, Fondo Famiglie e Persone
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
