A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Coelho family of Portugal.
Reg. 0846 · Portuguese, A–C
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
lionCourage, strength and royalty
rabbitOne who lives peaceably and well
Colours
Gold (Or)Means: Generosity
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Red (Gules)Means: Military strength
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“D'or au lion de gu.; à la bord. d'azur, ch. de sept lapins d'arg., tachetés de sa. [V. Pinto-Coelho-Peixato.]”
Portugalc. 1706
Where the Coelho Arms Were Recorded
Lisboa
Map of Portugal showing where the Coelho arms are recorded
The Coelho arms were recorded in Portugal, c. 1706.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in Lisboa.
Lisbon was the seat of the Portuguese crown and the port its wealth came through. Families made rich by trade and by service to the king took arms, and the crown's heralds recorded them there.
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 Portugal in this period.
Peter II of Portugal
Sovereign of the period
Peter II of Portugal
1683–1706
Reigning in Portugal when the Coelho arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Portugal
In Portugal, a coat of arms was a family possession that passed from a father to his children. Every legitimate descendant had the right to use the family shield without needing to change it. Younger branches of the family kept the original design, though they sometimes added small symbols to distinguish their specific line from the main branch.
Granting authority
The Cartório da Nobreza acted as the official body that managed and regulated noble titles and coats of arms in Portugal.
How they got arms
Families typically inherited their arms through bloodline, though they could also receive new grants from the crown for distinguished service.
Where arms were recorded
Coats of arms were officially recorded in the books of the Cartório da Nobreza starting in the year 1512.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Portugal.
Origin & History of the Coelho Family in Portugal
The surname Coelho is a classic Portuguese name that translates literally to rabbit. During the Middle Ages, it was common for families to adopt names based on animals or nature to distinguish themselves within their communities. By the early 18th century, the family had established a notable presence in the bustling capital city of Lisboa. Records from 1706 show that members of the Coelho family were active participants in the social and economic life of the city during a time of great architectural and cultural growth. As the family settled into urban life, they became part of the diverse tapestry of residents who helped shape the history of Portugal’s capital. Their presence in the city archives from this era suggests they were well-integrated into the local population and contributed to the development of the region.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Cuniculus
A Latin term referring to a burrowing animal or rabbit.
This name
CoelhoA topographic or occupational surname for someone who hunted or raised rabbits.
also spelled
Coelo
Koelho
Coelyo
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Freitas, Manuel Joaquim de, Dicionário de Famílias Portuguesas, 1999
Arquivo Nacional da Torre do Tombo, Registos Paroquiais de Lisboa, 1706
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
lionCourage, strength and royalty
rabbitOne who lives peaceably and well
lionCourage, strength and royalty
rabbitOne who lives peaceably and well
