A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Bencivenga family of Italy.
Reg. 4190 · Italian, A–C
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
bordureA difference between branches of one family
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
labelThe eldest son, during his father's life
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
Colours
Gold (Or)Means: Generosity
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Red (Gules)Means: Military strength
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“D'or, à la bordure emanchée d'azur; au chef du même, ch. de trois fleurs-de-lis d'or, rangées entre les quatre pendants d'un lambel de gu.”
ItalyBologne, c. 1775
Where the Bencivenga Arms Were Recorded
Bologne
Map of Italy showing where the Bencivenga arms are recorded
The Bencivenga 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 Bencivenga 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 Bencivenga Family in Italy
The surname Bencivenga originates from the Italian language and carries a meaning rooted in positive intent, as it is derived from the phrase "bene" and "venga," which translates to "may good come." By the late 18th century, records confirm that members of the Bencivenga family were well-established residents of Bologna. During this period, Bologna was a prominent center for trade, education, and administration within the Papal States. Families living in the city at that time were often involved in the local merchant guilds or the agricultural management of the surrounding Emilia-Romagna region. As the family name spread through Italy, it remained closely tied to these central regions, reflecting a history of community integration and the pursuit of prosperity in one of Italy’s most historic urban hubs.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Bene veniens
Latin phrase meaning well-coming or arriving in a good manner.
This name
BencivengaDerived from a medieval personal name signifying one who is welcome or brings good tidings.
also spelled
Bencivengua
Benciveng
Bencheevenga
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
De Felice, Emidio. Dizionario dei cognomi italiani. 1978
Archivio di Stato di Bologna. Stato Civile della Restaurazione, Registri parrocchiali. 1775
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bordureA difference between branches of one family
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
labelThe eldest son, during his father's life
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
bordureA difference between branches of one family
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
labelThe eldest son, during his father's life
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
