Meaning of the Colombo family crest symbols
Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Colombo 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.
Colombo name meaning and origin
The family name Colombo means "dove" in Italian.
History of family crests like the Colombo 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.
Colombo name variations and their meaning
The family name Colombo has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. In Italy, it is commonly spelled as Colombo, which is derived from the Latin word "columbus" meaning "dove." However, in other countries, the name may have different spellings and pronunciations. For instance, in Spain, it is often spelled as Colom, while in Portugal, it is spelled as Colombo. In France, the name is sometimes spelled Colomb or Colombié. These variations reflect the influence of different languages and dialects on the name over time.
Furthermore, as families migrated to different countries, the spelling and pronunciation of the name may have changed to adapt to the local language. For example, in English-speaking countries, the name may be spelled as Colomb or Columbo. Similarly, in countries with a strong German influence, the name may be spelled as Kolombo or Kolomb. These variations highlight the diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds of individuals with the surname Colombo, making it a truly global name with a rich history.
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
