Civita family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Civita family crest symbols

Torse

The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.

Shield - Bordure

The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.

Meaning of the Civita 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.

Yellow/Gold

The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.

Civita name meaning and origin

Civita is an Italian surname derived from the Latin word "civitas," meaning city or community. It often signifies a connection to a specific location or notable historical roots. Families bearing this name may have originated from towns like Civita di Bagnoregio in Italy.

History of family crests like the Civita 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.

Civita name variations and their meaning

Civita has evolved into several intriguing variations across different cultures and languages. In Italy, you may encounter Civitate, a variation that reflects the regional dialects, particularly in the 14th century when local adaptations of family names became common. By the 17th century, as Italian emigration increased, variations like Civitella emerged in regions such as Abruzzo, influenced by the local landscape and the tendency to add diminutive suffixes. In Spain, the name might have transformed into Cibita by the 18th century due to phonetic shifts, showcasing the melting pot of Iberian influences during the time. Crossing into the Americas, particularly during the 19th century, you might find Cibito, a result of both linguistic simplification and the blending of cultures in immigrant communities. Additionally, in some Slavic regions, a variety like Civitov developed, influenced by Slavic naming conventions that integrate patronymic elements, marking a fascinating intersection of identity and heritage over centuries.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: