Map of Italy showing where the Bonaparte arms are recorded
The Bonaparte arms were recorded in Sienne, c. 1771.
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 Bonaparte 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 Bonaparte Family in Italy
The Bonaparte family name traces its roots back to the Italian region of Tuscany rather than the island of Corsica where they later became famous. Long before the rise of Napoleon, the family was established in the city of Siena during the thirteenth century. Records indicate that members of the family held positions of influence and served in local government roles within the city. Over time, branches of the family migrated to other parts of Italy, eventually settling in Corsica in the sixteenth century. By the time the family was documented in Corsica in 1771, they had already transitioned from their Italian origins to become part of the local nobility on the island. The name itself reflects this long history of movement and social advancement across the Mediterranean region.
Bonaparte Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Bonaparte
Derived from the Latin bonus meaning good and pars meaning part.
This name
BonaparteA surname indicating a person who is a good part or good party.
also spelled
Bonapart
Bonaparti
Related arms
Bonapartvariant spelling
Bonapartivariant spelling
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Tulard, Jean. Napoléon ou le mythe du sauveur. 1977
Masson, Frédéric. Napoléon et sa famille. 1897
Archivio di Stato di Siena, Statuti di Siena
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
