Map of Italy showing where the Bulgari arms are recorded
The Bulgari arms were recorded in Bologne, 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 Bulgari 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 Bulgari Family in Italy
The history of the Bulgari family begins in the mountainous region of Epirus, located in modern-day Greece, where Sotirio Bulgari was born into a long line of skilled silversmiths. The family name itself is derived from the Italian word for Bulgarian, which suggests that their ancestors may have migrated from the Balkan Peninsula to Italy centuries before the family became famous. By 1775, records indicate that members of the family were established in the historic city of Bologna. During this period, they worked as master craftsmen who specialized in creating intricate silver objects. This move to Italy allowed the family to refine their artistic techniques and eventually build the foundation for their world-renowned reputation in jewelry and design.
Bulgari Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Bulgarus
A Latinized term referring to a person from Bulgaria.
This name
BulgariAn ethnic surname denoting an individual of Bulgarian origin or descent.
also spelled
Bulgary
Bulgar
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Bulgari, S. Bulgari: Between Eternity and History. 2009
Catalano, I. Bulgari: La storia, il mito. 2007
Archivio di Stato di Bologna, 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.
chequyConstancy, and the counting-board
lionCourage, strength and royalty
chequyConstancy, and the counting-board
lionCourage, strength and royalty
