Meaning of the Castells 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.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Castells coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Castells name meaning and origin
The surname Castells has Catalan origins, derived from the word "castell," meaning castle. It typically signifies a connection to a specific geographic location or a historical role associated with building or governing castles, reflecting a heritage tied to medieval nobility and architectural significance.
History of family crests like the Castells 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.
Castells name variations and their meaning
Castells has given rise to several intriguing variations across different regions and languages, reflecting the complex tapestry of cultural influences over the centuries. In the 17th century, as the name traveled to Latin American countries, it often transformed into Castello or Castillo, adapting the phonetic preferences of Spanish speakers. By the 18th century, the influx of Catalan-speaking settlers led to the variation Castells being modified into Castellà, emphasizing regional dialects and identities. The migration of families to various parts of Europe during the 19th century brought forth versions like Castel and Castelli in Italy, highlighting the Latin roots and morphological shifts typical of Italian surnames. In more recent decades, the integration of modern linguistic practices has resulted in anglicized forms such as Castles or Castle, particularly in English-speaking countries, where the adaptation aligns with an ease of pronunciation and a contemporary appeal. Each variation not only exemplifies linguistic evolution but also embodies the rich historical narratives of the communities that carried these names through time.
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
