Meaning of the Cardenas family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Cardenas coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Cardenas name meaning and origin
Cardenas is a Spanish surname that has its roots in the medieval times. It is derived from the Spanish word 'cardeno' which means 'thistle', a type of flowering plant. The name was often given to people living in areas abundant with thistles. Therefore, it's a geographical surname, indicating a person's residence or birthplace.
History of family crests like the Cardenas coat of arms
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.
Cardenas name variations and their meaning
The family name Cardenas has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Spain, it is commonly spelled as Cárdenas, emphasizing the accent on the letter "a." In Italy, the name is often written as Cardini or Cardinale, reflecting the influence of the Italian language. In Portugal, the name is sometimes seen as Cardoso, which adds a different twist to its pronunciation. In Latin America, particularly in Mexico, the name is frequently spelled as Cárdenas, maintaining the original Spanish pronunciation. However, it is not uncommon to find variations such as Cardenás or Cardenaz, which may result from regional accents or personal preferences. These variations highlight the adaptability and evolution of surnames as they travel across borders and generations. Regardless of the spelling, the name Cardenas and its variations represent a rich heritage and a sense of familial identity for those who bear it.
Find your family crest
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
