A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Bono family of Italy.
Reg. 3333 · Italian, A–C
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
cross symbolChristian faith and service
lionCourage, strength and royalty
Colours
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
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)
“Ec.: aux 1 et 4 d'arg. à la croix pattée alésée de gu.; aux 2 et 3 coupé d'azur sur or, au lion de l'un en l'autre.”
ItalyMilan, c. 1775
Where the Bono Arms Were Recorded
Milan
Map of Italy showing where the Bono arms are recorded
The Bono arms were recorded in Milan, 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 Bono 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 Bono Family in Italy
The surname Bono is rooted in the Latin word bonus, which translates to good. During the Middle Ages, this term was often used as a nickname to describe someone with a kind or virtuous personality. Over time, this descriptive name became a permanent family identifier as it was passed down through generations. By the year 1775, records confirm that the Bono family was well established in Milan. During this period, Milan was a vibrant center of trade and culture under the influence of the Habsburg monarchy. Families like the Bonos were often involved in the local urban economy, contributing to the growth of the city as it transitioned into the modern era. The name remains a reflection of the family’s long history within the Lombardy region of Italy.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Bonus
Latin term meaning good, virtuous, or honest.
This name
BonoA descriptive surname indicating a person of good character or moral standing.
also spelled
Bonno
Bonn
Related arms
Borzaghisimilar arms
Mingarellisimilar arms
Montesimilar arms
Bonnvariant spelling
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
De Felice, Emidio. Dizionario dei cognomi italiani. 1978
State Archives of Milan (Archivio di Stato di Milano), Stato Civile della Restaurazione
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
cross symbolChristian faith and service
lionCourage, strength and royalty
cross symbolChristian faith and service
lionCourage, strength and royalty
