Bonifacio family crest and coat of arms

Bonifacio is an Italian and Spanish surname derived from the given name Bonifacio, meaning "good fate" or "luck." It is of Latin origin and is commonly found in regions with Italian and Spanish influence.

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.

The family name Bonifacio has seen a rich tapestry of variations across different regions and languages, reflecting cultural and linguistic shifts over centuries. In Italy, particularly in the southern regions, the name often appears as Bonifaci or Bonifaciocca, showcasing the evolution of vowel endings typical in Italian surnames by the 15th century when regional dialects began influencing spelling. Meanwhile, in Spain, one might encounter Bonifaz, a notable variation that stems from the Castilian adaptation seen from the late medieval period, which coincided with the greater influence of the Mozarabic language and assimilation of Latin-based names. In the Philippines, a former Spanish colony, the name has been adapted into forms like Bonifacio and even local renditions such as Bonifacioso, reflecting the melding of indigenous languages with colonial influences that emerged in the 19th century. Across Portuguese-speaking countries, such as Brazil, the name has transformed into Bonifácio, with its accentuated vowels highlighting the phonetic characteristics of Portuguese that became prominent in the 16th century. Throughout these variations, one can observe not just the linguistic diversity but also the socio-historical contexts that shaped these names, as migrations, conquests, and colonial influences played pivotal roles in their evolution across different centuries. This intricate web of variations underscores the complexity of the surname Bonifacio and illuminates how personal names can act as a mirror to linguistic and cultural exchanges throughout history.

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