Map of Italy showing where the Bongiovanni arms are recorded
The Bongiovanni arms were recorded in Rome, 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 Bongiovanni 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 Bongiovanni Family in Italy
The surname Bongiovanni is a compound name derived from the Italian words "buono," meaning good, and "Giovanni," which is the Italian form of John. Historically, this name was often given as a positive descriptor to signify a "good John" or a person of virtuous character. By the year 1775, records confirm that members of the Bongiovanni family were well-established residents of Rome. During this period, families in Rome were deeply integrated into the social and administrative life of the Papal States. The Bongiovanni name likely gained prominence through the professional activities of its members, who were often involved in the city’s trade, artisan guilds, or service to the local church administration. As the family grew, they became a recognized part of the Roman urban landscape, contributing to the cultural and economic identity of the city during the late eighteenth century.
Bongiovanni Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Bonus Johannes
Latin for good and the Hebrew name meaning God is gracious.
This name
BongiovanniA compound surname signifying a good or virtuous follower of John.
also spelled
Bongiovanny
Bonjovani
Related arms
Centanisimilar arms
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 Roma. Stato delle Anime, Parrocchia di San Lorenzo in Lucina. 1775
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
