A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Capasso family of Italy.
Reg. 1551 · Italian, A–C
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
saltireResolution, and St Andrew's cross
lionCourage, strength and royalty
Colours
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Gold (Or)Means: Generosity
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“D'azur au saut. d'or, cant. de quatre têtes de lion du même, lamp. de gu., les deux en flancs affr.”
NaplesNaples, c. 1775
Where the Capasso Arms Were Recorded
Naples
Map of Italy showing where the Capasso arms are recorded
The Capasso arms were recorded in Naples, c. 1775.
Naples was the largest city in Italy and the seat of a kingdom. Its noble houses were numerous, and the kingdom kept formal lists of the families entitled to arms, which is why so many appear in the records.
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 Capasso 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 Naples.
Origin & History of the Capasso Family in Italy
The Capasso family name originates from the Campania region of Italy, with deep historical roots tied specifically to the city of Naples. The name is believed to be derived from the Italian word "capaccio," which historically referred to a person with a large head or, in a figurative sense, someone who was considered stubborn or strong-willed. By the late 18th century, the family was well-established within the Neapolitan social structure, and records confirm their presence in the city by 1775. During this period, the Capasso family was integrated into the local urban life, often participating in the professional and civic activities that defined the bustling capital of the Kingdom of Naples. Their history reflects the broader evolution of Neapolitan society, as families of that era frequently moved from rural areas into the city to pursue trade, law, or administration.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Capax
Latin term meaning capable, spacious, or able to hold much.
This name
CapassoRefers to a person who is capable, intelligent, or has a large capacity.
also spelled
Capasse
Kapasso
Capass
Kapaso
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 Napoli, 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.
saltireResolution, and St Andrew's cross
lionCourage, strength and royalty
saltireResolution, and St Andrew's cross
lionCourage, strength and royalty
