Meaning of the Berge family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Berge coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Berge name meaning and origin
Berge is a surname of European origin, specifically from the Scandinavian and German regions. It translates to 'mountain' or 'hill', indicating that the ancestors of the Berge family likely lived in or near mountainous terrain. This name was often given to individuals who resided in such geographical features, symbolizing strength and stability.
History of family crests like the Berge coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
Berge name variations and their meaning
The family name Berge has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Norway, it is commonly spelled as "Berg" or "Bergh." This variation is also found in other Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Denmark. In Germany, the name is often written as "Bergen" or "Berger." In France, it can be seen as "Le Berge" or "De Berge." In the Netherlands, the name is spelled as "Van den Berge" or "Van der Berge." In some English-speaking countries, it may be anglicized as "Burg" or "Burger." Additionally, there are other less common variations such as "Bergman" or "Bergstrom." These variations reflect the diverse migration patterns and historical influences that have shaped the family name over time. Despite the differences in spelling, these variations still represent a shared heritage and ancestry for individuals with the surname Berge.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
